PM seeks Japanese support

Japan yesterday assured Bangladesh of its continued cooperation in its efforts for socio-economic development.

The assurance came when newly appointed Japanese Ambassador to Bangladesh Matsushiro Horiguchi called on Prime Minister Khaleda Zia at her office yesterday.

Recalling contribution to the construction of the Jamuna Multipurpose Bridge, Khaleda Zia hoped that Japan, the fourth largest FDI country to Bangladesh, would also lend its support in constructing the Padma Bridge. Japan is now conducting a feasibility study on the proposed bridge.

Khaleda Zia emphasised increased Japanese investment in Bangladesh and export of more Bangladeshi products like pure silk, fruits, vegetables, shrimp and ceramics to Japan.

Describing Bangladesh-Japan relations as very cordial, the Japanese envoy said he would make all possible efforts to further strengthen the bond of friendship between the two countries.

Khaleda appreciated the positive role of Matsushiro in the recently-concluded Bangladesh Development Forum meeting in Dhaka.

She said Japan's decision to send an experienced and senior diplomat like Horiguchi to Bangladesh indicates what a great importance Japan attaches to Bangladesh-Japan relations.

She also enquired about the affects of recent earthquake in Japan.

The ambassador conveyed Japanese Prime Minister's invitation to Khaleda Zia to visit Japan at a mutually convenient time.