Recalling Japan’s longstanding support for Bangladesh’s development journey, Local Government, Rural Development and Co-operatives Minister Dr Abdul Moin Khan has expressed hope that development cooperation between the two countries will be further strengthened in the future.

He made the remarks during a courtesy meeting with Japanese Ambassador to Bangladesh SAIDA Shinichi at his office at the Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development and Co-operatives at the Secretariat on Wednesday (September 30).

During the meeting, the local government minister briefed the ambassador on the progress of various development projects undertaken by the ministry. He also expressed gratitude to the government and people of Japan for their continued cooperation in Bangladesh’s development activities since independence.

The minister said Japan has long been an important partner in Bangladesh’s development journey. Japanese cooperation in various development initiatives since independence has made a significant contribution to the country’s socioeconomic development. He expressed hope that bilateral relations would advance further through continued mutual cooperation.

The meeting also covered various development projects implemented with Japanese assistance and participation, as well as water supply, waste management and different aspects of building a sustainable society. They exchanged views on opportunities for future cooperation in these sectors.

They also discussed strengthening democratic institutions and other issues of mutual interest.

Local Government Division Secretary Md Shahidul Hasan, First Secretary of the Embassy of Japan in Bangladesh Komine Ken, Second Secretary Soma Hana, Director General of the Planning, Monitoring, Evaluation and Inspection Wing Shibir Bichitra Barua, and senior officials of the ministry were present at the meeting.