Tokyo announces $17.5mn in Rohingya aid as Dhaka calls for repatriation

PM Tarique expresses interest in exporting skilled manpower to Japan’s health care and agricultural sectors

Japan has pledged $17.5 million in aid to address the Rohingya crisis, reinforcing its continued support for Bangladesh.

A high-level delegation of Japanese officials revealed the plan during a courtesy call on Prime Minister Tarique Rahman at his parliament office on Wednesday, according to a media statement.

The premier emphasised the safe return of the Rohingya during the meeting.

Japan’s Agriculture Minister and Special Envoy of the Japanese government Suzuki Norikazu led their delegation.

As the delegates focused on the speedy and smooth completion of the Matarbari Deep Sea Port and the third terminal of Shahjalal International Airport, alongside the extension of the metro rail project, Tarique assured them of continued cooperation.

Japan is funding these mega projects.

The Prime Minister's Office says many issues and aspects were on the agenda as both sides committed to elevating bilateral relations and effectively advancing the Economic Partnership Agreement.

Norikazu expressed his government's interest in increasing its food exports to Bangladesh and expanding cooperation in the agricultural and technology sectors.

Describing Bangladesh and Japan as long-time and tested friends, Tarique said his government is keen to create employment for the youth, for which he invited more Japanese investment in the agriculture, electronics and automobile sectors.

He also highlighted the possibility of exporting skilled Bangladeshi manpower to Japan’s health care and agricultural sectors.

The delegates invited him for a state visit to Japan.