Japan urges Bangladesh's new government to uphold a defence agreement signed with the previous interim administration even as Dhaka signals its review based on national interest under current policy standpoint.
The issue was raised Tuesday during a courtesy call by Japan's ambassador in Bangladesh, Saida Shinichi, on Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Prime Minister's Foreign Affairs Adviser Humayun Kabir attended the meet.
According to officials present, discussions focused on the recently signed defence pact, the dispatch of Bangladeshi workers to Japan, broader bilateral ties, Indo-Pacific issues and ongoing strategic-cooperation projects, including the seaside Matarbari development initiative.
On February 3rd, Bangladesh's post-uprising interim government signed an agreement with Japan on the transfer of defence equipment and technology. The deal was signed on behalf of Bangladesh by Lieutenant-General SM Kamrul Hasan, Principal Staff Officer of the Armed Forces Division, and by Ambassador Saida Shinichi on behalf of Japan.
The agreement establishes a legal framework between the two governments for the transfer of defence equipment and technology, enabling the joint implementation of projects contributing to international peace and security.
It also provides for strict controls over any onward transfer to third parties or use of the equipment and technology beyond agreed purposes.
Following Tuesday's meeting, Humayun Kabir said the new government would carefully examine the agreement before taking a final decision.
"The interim government signed an agreement. We will review it and decide accordingly. If it aligns with our interests, it may continue. If not, it will be reconsidered," he says.
"We need to see what the interim government has left for us before making any determination."
Ambassador Saida said he had raised the defence agreement during the meeting and expressed the hope that its implementation would proceed smoothly.
He also indicates Japan's willingness to assist in recruiting skilled workers from Bangladesh. "We discussed skilled manpower," he said, adding that Japan would extend cooperation in sending Bangladeshi workers.
Officials said the talks further covered the evolving Indo-Pacific landscape, strategic partnership between the two countries and major infrastructure collaboration, including the Matarbari project.
mitmostafiz@yahoo.com
