Bangladesh Prime Minister Tareque Rahman and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi have agreed to strengthen bilateral cooperation in energy security, technology, infrastructure, trade and investment, with Dhaka seeking expanded Japanese financing and private-sector participation in major development projects.

The two leaders held a bilateral summit at the Japanese prime minister’s office, known as the Kantei, in Tokyo at 11:30 a.m. local time on Tuesday. The meeting was confirmed by Shahadat Shadhin, deputy press secretary to the Bangladesh prime minister.

During the talks, Rahman called for greater engagement by the Japanese government and private sector in Bangladesh’s economic development, technological advancement and industrialization.

Presenting his vision of transforming Bangladesh into a regional hub for economic activity, technology and manufacturing, Rahman said the country could become the world’s ninth-largest consumer economy by 2030. He also expressed the possibility that Bangladesh’s gross domestic product could exceed $1 trillion by 2034.

Rahman said Japan held a special place in the hearts of the Bangladeshi people, recalling that Japan was among the early countries to recognize Bangladesh following its independence in 1971. He described Japan as one of Bangladesh’s most important development partners, with bilateral relations built on mutual respect, trust and shared aspirations for peace, prosperity and stability.

The prime minister also recalled his father, late President Ziaur Rahman’s two visits to Japan and the contributions of his mother, former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, to strengthening bilateral relations. He pledged to build on their legacy and take Bangladesh-Japan ties to a new level.

Energy security and technology cooperation

Energy security featured prominently in the discussions. Rahman said reliable and affordable energy supplies were essential to sustaining Bangladesh’s economic growth and expressed gratitude for Japan’s longstanding assistance in the sector.

Referring to a recent emergency loan of 50 billion Japanese yen under the Partnership for Power Asia initiative, aimed at strengthening energy security in Asia, Rahman called for increased Japanese investment in liquefied natural gas infrastructure, efficient power generation and renewable energy in Bangladesh.

He also proposed establishing a Bangladesh-Japan technology park to support research, innovation and the development of a technology-driven economy.

The proposed facility would connect Japanese companies, universities and investors with young Bangladeshi talent, entrepreneurs and skilled professionals. Artificial intelligence, cloud computing, robotics and electronics manufacturing would be among its priority sectors.

Rahman further expressed interest in expanding cooperation with Japan in space science, satellite engineering and related technologies, where Japan has advanced capabilities.

High-speed rail and major infrastructure projects

The prime minister outlined plans to develop modern, integrated transport infrastructure to accelerate economic growth. These include a high-speed rail network connecting six major divisional cities and the construction of elevated roads across the country.

He sought Japanese assistance with project planning, technical support, investment and financing, citing Japan’s extensive experience in infrastructure development and modern transport systems.

The leaders also discussed a proposed package of private-sector investment worth 1 trillion Japanese yen, equivalent to approximately $6.3 billion, in energy, infrastructure and information and communications technology.

Expediting the deployment of a Japanese delegation to Bangladesh to advance the investment plan was also highlighted during the discussions.

Welcoming new investments by Japanese businesses, Rahman said his government was committed to improving the investment climate through greater transparency, predictability and efficiency in regulatory systems, tax policies, customs clearance and fund transfers.

He also expressed hope that the Bangladesh-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement would be implemented swiftly, stressing the need for both countries to work together to ensure its benefits reach their people.

Regional issues and the Rohingya crisis

The two prime ministers discussed regional and international issues, including the United Nations, the Indo-Pacific region and the Rohingya crisis.

Rahman reaffirmed Bangladesh’s commitment to multilateralism, international peace and respect for international law. He thanked Japan for supporting the election of Bangladesh’s Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman as president of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly and expressed hope for closer cooperation with Tokyo in strengthening multilateral engagement and addressing global challenges.

Both leaders reiterated their shared vision of a free, open, peaceful and inclusive Indo-Pacific. Rahman emphasized the importance of regional connectivity, the free flow of trade and cooperation to promote economic growth.

Expressing deep concern over the deteriorating situation in Myanmar and the resulting displacement of Rohingya people, the Bangladesh prime minister called for an end to violence, unhindered humanitarian assistance and dialogue among the parties concerned.

He praised Japan’s support for Bangladesh’s humanitarian efforts to assist Rohingya refugees from Myanmar’s Rakhine State. Rahman urged Japan to maintain active engagement with all relevant parties to help establish peace and stability in Rakhine, stressing that a lasting solution to the crisis must be found in Myanmar.

He also called for the swift, voluntary, safe and dignified repatriation of Rohingya refugees to their homeland.

Proposal for joint ministerial commission

In his concluding remarks, Rahman said the summit could mark the beginning of a new chapter in Bangladesh-Japan relations, building on their longstanding friendship through deeper trust, broader economic cooperation, stronger investment ties and a shared commitment to peace, stability and prosperity.

He proposed establishing a joint ministerial-level commission to identify priority areas, accelerate project implementation and turn opportunities for cooperation into concrete initiatives. He also called for closer engagement between the two countries’ business communities.

Rahman said the constructive discussions had strengthened their shared commitment to inclusive economic growth and sustainable development. He invited Takaichi to visit Bangladesh at a mutually convenient time.

The summit concluded with both sides expressing hope that their longstanding friendship would continue to deepen and expand through mutual trust, cooperation and shared prosperity.