In a significant development, Japan's trade negotiating team is poised to embark on a pivotal journey to Dhaka from May 19-23 for the inaugural round of discussions on the Bangladesh-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA).
 
Expressing optimism, Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud underscored the potential benefits of an Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), aiming to secure Japanese financial concessions by 2026, coinciding with Bangladesh's graduation from the Least Developed Country (LDC) status.
 
Mahmud extended gratitude towards Japan for its proactive approach in sending the trade negotiating team, signaling a step forward in strengthening bilateral ties.
 
In a meeting with Japanese Parliamentary Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs Hosaka Yasushi, Mahmud reiterated Bangladesh's commitment to fostering a robust partnership, emphasizing Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's pivotal visit to Japan last year as a cornerstone moment in bilateral relations.
 
Yasushi echoed Mahmud's sentiments, expressing confidence in bolstering bilateral cooperation under the framework of a "Strategic Partnership" and jointly advancing a "Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP)" agenda.
 
Highlighting Japan's appreciation for Bangladesh's hosting of the 30th anniversary of the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD30) Global Dialogue, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing collaboration across various sectors.
 
Mahmud seized the opportunity to underscore Bangladesh's aspiration for Japanese assistance in developing its ship recycling industry sustainably. He sought necessary funds through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to accelerate progress in this area.
 
In response, Yasushi assured forthcoming technical support from Japan, acknowledging Bangladesh's status as a country with a growing population and a burgeoning economy.
 
Both parties expressed satisfaction with the close cooperation between Bangladesh and Japan in multilateral forums, emphasizing their shared commitment to international peace, security, and sustainable development.
 
As Japan's trade delegation prepares to engage in substantive discussions in Dhaka, anticipation mounts regarding the potential outcomes that could pave the way for a deeper and more mutually beneficial partnership between the two nations. Stay tuned for further updates as the negotiations unfold.
 
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