The envoy said the Embassy of Japan, together with JETRO, will take every opportunity to improve the business environment so that Japanese companies can expand their trade between the two countries and increase their direct investment in Bangladesh.
He made the remarks while addressing a reception at his official residence mentioning that vibrant economy and people of Bangladesh have already fascinated him since his arrival last month.
Ambassador Ito and his wife Yuki hosted the reception and introduced themselves to the Bangladeshi government officials as well as dignitaries and representatives of Japan-related and international organizations based in Bangladesh.
Prime Minister’s Principal Secretary Md Nojibur Rahman who attended the function as the chief guest said Bangladesh and Japan have been enjoying longstanding friendship, mentioning the similarity of the two national flags which symbolises the proximity of the two nations.
Ambassador Ito said his recent visit to the Rohingya camps made him recognise again the necessity of working for displaced people and people in the host community, and of realising their early repatriation.
“To that end, we’ll continue to support the efforts made by the Bangladeshi government, and to cooperate with UN agencies, NGOs and other stakeholders,” he said.
The Japanese Ambassador also reiterated that both the years 2021, 50th anniversary of the independence of Bangladesh and 2022, 50th anniversary of Japan-Bangladesh relations, will make a very good opportunity to further strengthen the bilateral ties.
“As we move forward, there’ll be important milestones of our partnership. Year 2021 will be the 50th anniversary of the independence of Bangladesh, and Year 2022 will be the 50th anniversary of the Bangladesh-Japan Diplomatic Relation,” he said.
Ambassador Ito said these coming events will be very good opportunities to further strengthen the ties between the two countries and to elevate them to a higher dimension.
State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Nasrul Hamid and Secretary (Bilateral- Europe, Africa & Americas – and Consular) Kamrul Ahsan among others, were present.