Rabiul seeks expanded JICA cooperation for Bangladesh’s transport infrastructure

Road Transport and Bridges, Railways and Shipping Minister Shaikh Rabiul Alam on Thursday said Bangladesh is committed to building a safe, modern, sustainable and integrated transport system under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.

He also stressed that continued support from international development partners, particularly the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), is crucial to achieving that goal, said a press release.

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“The present government is implementing a wide range of projects to develop public transport, introduce smart transportation systems and strengthen regional connectivity. JICA has long been a trusted development partner, and we hope this cooperation will expand further in the years ahead,” he said.

The minister made the remarks when JICA President Dr Tanaka Akihiko made a courtesy call on him at the conference room of the Road Transport and Highways Division in Dhaka on Thursday.

The meeting focused on expanding Japanese cooperation in Bangladesh’s transport infrastructure development and reviewed the progress of ongoing development projects. Discussions covered the Mass Rapid Transit (Metro Rail) project, road and bridge infrastructure, expressway construction, technical cooperation, capacity building and prospects for future development initiatives with JICA’s support.

Rabiul said Japan’s assistance, particularly in the implementation of metro rail, roads, bridges and other strategic infrastructure projects, has made a significant contribution to Bangladesh’s economic growth and sustainable development. He expressed optimism that the longstanding partnership between Bangladesh and Japan would continue to deepen through enhanced cooperation in the transport sector.

Tanaka reaffirmed Japan’s continued commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s infrastructure development. He said JICA would remain a reliable development partner for Bangladesh, extending its cooperation not only for the successful implementation of ongoing projects but also for exploring new areas of collaboration with strong development potential.

The meeting was attended by State Minister for the Road Transport and Highways Division and the Ministry of Railways Habibur Rashid, Secretary of the Ministry of Railways Md Fahimul Islam, Secretary of the Road Transport and Highways Division Dr Mohammad Ziaul Haque, Shipping Secretary Zakaria and senior JICA officials.

Both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation in the successful implementation of the metro rail project, the integrated development of the Matarbari region, modernisation of the road transport network, expansion of technology transfer and technical assistance, and future infrastructure development projects.

They also reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening the longstanding friendly relations between Bangladesh and Japan.