Foreign affairs minister Dipu Moni on Tuesday expressed optimism that the continued cooperation with Japan would help Bangladesh to achieve its 'Vision 2021' of becoming a knowledge-based middle-income country.
Bangladesh-Japan relations are deeply rooted in identical values and the culture of the people of the two friendly countries, said Dipu Moni, mentioning Japan's assistance during the time of need, particularly after natural calamities.
Bangladesh is now trying to work out an economic partnership agreement with Japan for enhancing bilateral trade and economic relations, she told a seminar on 'Japan's partnership for the development of Bangladesh', jointly organized by the embassy of Japan and the Bangladesh-Japan Friendship Association at the Dhaka Reporters Unity.
Japan's total assistance to Bangladesh in various sectors including health, education, infrastructure, power, communications, science and technology amounts to more than $10 billion, larger than the combined assistance of the US and UK.
Japanese ambassador Tamotsu Shinotsuka said that Bangladesh should properly utilize its geographical advantage of being located in the midst of India, China and ASEAN countries, and open up a new horizon.
He appreciated the country's steady economic growth and the abundant human resources which are drawing the attention of Japanese investors.
The ambassador, however, expressed concern over the brain-drain from Bangladesh. 'If the skilled and talented manpower do not return, Bangladesh will keep losing its competitiveness,' he warned.
Source: New Age
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