Bangladesh, Japan Boost Transport Ties Thru' JICA
- Emphasis on technology and capacity development in the transport sector.
- Discussions focused on metro rail, expressways, and road infrastructure.
Japan has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Bangladesh's transport infrastructure development as Dr. Akihiko Tanaka, President of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), paid a courtesy call on Transport Adviser Sheikh Robiul Alam, who oversees the Ministries of Road Transport and Bridges, Railways, and Shipping.
The meeting, held on Wednesday at the conference room of the Road Transport and Highways Division, focused on expanding JICA's cooperation in Bangladesh's transport sector and reviewing the progress of ongoing projects. Discussions covered metro rail, roads and bridge infrastructure, expressway construction, technical cooperation, capacity building, and support for future development initiatives.
Among those present at the meeting were State Minister for the Road Transport and Highways Division and the Ministry of Railways Habibur Rashid, Railway Secretary Md. Fahimul Islam, Road Transport and Highways Division Secretary Dr. Mohammad Ziaul Haque, Shipping Secretary Zakaria, and senior JICA officials.
Sheikh Robiul Alam said JICA has long been one of Bangladesh's key development partners in modernizing the country's transport infrastructure. He noted that Japan's support, particularly in metro rail, roads, bridges, and strategic infrastructure projects, has made a significant contribution to Bangladesh's economic growth and sustainable development.
He said the current government, under the leadership of Tarique Rahman, is working to establish a safe, modern, sustainable, and integrated transport system. Achieving this goal, he added, requires the continued support of international development partners in implementing projects related to public transportation, smart transport systems, and enhanced regional connectivity.
JICA President Dr. Akihiko Tanaka assured Bangladesh of Japan's continued support for infrastructure development. He said JICA would remain a reliable partner in Bangladesh's development journey and continue its cooperation not only in the successful implementation of ongoing projects but also in exploring new areas of potential collaboration.
During the meeting, both sides agreed to further strengthen cooperation in the successful implementation of the metro rail project, the integrated development of the Matarbari region, modernization of the road transport network, expansion of technology transfer and technical assistance, and future infrastructure development projects.
The two sides also reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening the long-standing friendly relations between Bangladesh and Japan.
//DBTech/SI/EK/OR//
