Interim government chief advisor Dr. Muhammad Yunus has called on Japan to enhance cooperation with Bangladesh in areas such as investment, the fisheries sector, humanitarian aid for the Rohingya, education, sports, and youth development. He made the appeal during a meeting with JICA’s Executive Senior Vice President Miyazaki Katsura at the state guesthouse Jamuna on Thursday (July 3).

Describing Japan as a trusted friend of Bangladesh, Dr. Yunus expressed his appreciation for the hospitality he and his delegation received during a recent visit to Japan. In response, Miyazaki reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s development and emphasized the country's importance as one of Japan's key partners in Asia. He also conveyed condolences for those killed and injured during the July movement.

During the meeting, Dr. Yunus highlighted the strategic significance of the Matarbari project, calling it “the most crucial region for Bangladesh’s future.” He further discussed the country's vast potential in the maritime sector and said he had conveyed to JICA’s president that Bangladesh aims to evolve into a blue economy.

Dr. Yunus also urged Japan to increase scholarship opportunities and employment prospects for Bangladeshi youth, noting that many are eager to work in Japan but face challenges due to language barriers. He proposed that Japanese language and workplace etiquette could be taught either by Japanese instructors in Bangladesh or through remote learning platforms.