Japan to provide five patrol vessels

Japan is set to supply Bangladesh with five patrol vessels to bolster coastal patrolling and is ready to finalize an agreement to provide air pollution monitoring equipment.

The newly appointed Japanese Ambassador to Bangladesh, Saida Shinichi, shared these developments during a courtesy meeting with Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday, said a foreign ministry release.

Ambassador Shinichi emphasised the importance of convening Foreign Office Consultations soon and fostering regular high-level exchanges between the two nations. He also expressed satisfaction with the ongoing negotiations for an Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) and iterated Japan's strong support for Bangladesh's interim government. An upcoming Parliamentary Vice Minister-level visit will further convey Japan's commitment to this political support.

Foreign Adviser Touhid Hossain expressed gratitude to Japan for its unwavering support, noting that Japan is Bangladesh’s largest bilateral development partner. 

He highlighted Japan’s contributions to significant development projects and reassured that Japanese investments in Bangladesh remain secure.

The adviser also praised Japan’s continued efforts in seeking a sustainable and dignified resolution to the Rohingya crisis, including its humanitarian support for Rohingyas relocated to Bhashan Char. 

He sought Japan’s backing for the upcoming conference on the Rohingya crisis in Doha, which Bangladesh will host in collaboration with the United Nations.

Both sides discussed enhancing bilateral collaboration, mutual support in international forums, and election-related matters, underscoring their commitment to deepening ties between the two nations.