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Chief Adviser (CA) Prof Muhammad Yunus defines offshore Matarbari as "the most important region for Bangladesh's future" as he envisions seas-based transformation of the economy.
During his meeting with Miyazaki Katsura, Executive Senior Vice President of JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency), at the state guesthouse Jamuna in the capital on Thursday , he stressed quicker execution of the multidimensional Matarbari project, said a spokesperson for the CA Office.
The Nobel-laureate highlighted Bangladesh's maritime potential. He also urged Japan to further strengthen its cooperation with Bangladesh in areas such as investment, fisheries, Rohingya humanitarian response, and youth development, including education and sports.
"Japan has always been a trusted friend. I recently visited your country, and I was deeply touched by the warmth and hospitality," said the CA.
Miyazaki notes Bangladesh remains one of Japan's most important partners in Asia, and reaffirms Japan's commitment to continuing supporting Bangladesh's development journey. "We deeply mourn the lives lost and those injured in July (uprising)," she said.
Professor Yunus also requested Japan to increase scholarships for Bangladeshi young people to study in Japan, as well as expand opportunities for employment.
The CA also raised concerns about the situation of Rohingya refugees. "It is a sad situation. Thousands of young people are growing up in camps with no hope. They are becoming frustrated and angry."
Miyazaki said JICA is focusing on supporting reforms in Bangladesh's judiciary, public administration, local government, and health sector as the country prepares for its graduation from LDC status in 2026.
She added JICA has taken up a Bangladesh-focused project in an effort to introduce advanced ICT human resource training in collaboration with local governments, companies, and universities in both countries.
The CA thanked Japan for signing the recent loan and grant agreements worth over US$1.0 billion.
mirmostafiz@yahoo.com