Bangladesh, Japan to celebrate 50th anniversary of diplomatic tie

Bangladesh and Japan have decided to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries this year through various events in Dhaka and Tokyo to further strengthen bilateral partnership, reports BSS.

Japanese ambassador to Bangladesh, ITO Naoki called on foreign minister AK Abdul Momen at the State Guest House Padma on Thursday to discuss about the celebratory events and other issues of common interest, a press release from the foreign ministry said.

The two countries established diplomatic relations on 10 February 1972.

During the meeting, foreign minister recognised Japan as a long-trusted friend of Bangladesh and proven development partner.

He recalled the unwavering Japanese support to the cause of independence of Bangladesh as well as Japanese development cooperation since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two friendly countries.

Both the sides recalled the historic official visit of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman to Japan in October 1973, which laid the rock-solid foundation of the bilateral relations between the two countries.

The envoy shared that the Japanese embassy in Dhaka would publish a commemorative photo book on the historic visit of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman to Japan on the auspicious occasion of the 50th anniversary of bilateral relations between the two countries.

The Japanese ambassador reiterated his government's support for an early repatriation of Rohingyas from Bangladesh to their ancestral homes in Myanmar and their relocation to Bhasan Char from Cox's Bazar camps.

The foreign minister urged Japan to use its influence to persue Myanmar to create a conducive environment in Myanmar and facilitate safe return of the Rohingyas to the Rakhine State.

Momen also appreciated Japan's contributions to the infrastructure development in Bangladesh and suggested more Japanese investments.

The Japanese ambassador assured that Japanese as well as international investors would be setting up their factories in the Araihazar Economic Zone from early next year.

He requested the foreign minister to ease customs and related issues to facilitate more Japanese investments in Bangladesh while Momen assured to look into the issues.