Social Welfare and Women and Children Affairs Minister Abu Zafar Md Zahid Hossain. File photo

DHAKA, Apr 01, 2026 (BSS)- Social Welfare and Women and Children Affairs Minister Abu Zafar Md Zahid Hossain has said the friendship between Bangladesh and Japan is deeply rooted in mutual trust, common aspirations and progress.
 
Terming Japan one of the Bangladesh's most trusted development partners, he said the solid friendship between the two countries is built on mutual respect and trust and has grown steadily over the past few decades.

The minister said while speaking at the Japan's National Day reception marking the birthday of the Emperor of Japan at Japan Embassy in Dhaka yesterday, a handout said today.

Zahid Hossain said, “We are firmly committed to further strengthening Bangladesh's strategic partnership with Japan for shared peace, prosperity and stability.”

The minister pointed out Bangladesh’s recently completed democratic transformation and successful national elections saying the priority activities of the incumbent government include strengthening democratic institutions, establishing good governance, restoring economic stability, attracting investment, creating employment and ensuring transparency and accountability at all levels.

The minister said the Bangladesh government has launched the ‘Family Card’ programme to consolidate and expand the social security system of the people and is going to introduce the ‘Agricultural Card’ to support the farmers.
 
“We value Japan’s continued cooperation in these areas, including human resource development and skill development,” he said.

Stating that the bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Japan are built on strong economic cooperation, Zahid Hossain said Japan, as the largest bilateral development partner of Bangladesh, has been making groundbreaking contributions to the Bangladesh’s infrastructure, energy and connectivity sectors. 

He called the recent signing of the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between Bangladesh and Japan as an important milestone in the development of relations between the two countries. 

He also deeply appreciated Japan’s continued humanitarian assistance to the displaced Rohingyas, saying that Japan’s constructive engagement is essential for a sustainable solution of this global crisis. 

Japan Ambassador to Bangladesh SAIDA Shinichi and envoys of different countries stationed in Dhaka were present.