Strong bilateral ties can act as the foundation for a nation to realize its potential. And considering our substantial developmental plans for the future, it's encouraging to see that Bangladesh has been proactive in forming and strengthening so many of its bilateral relations with powerful nations.
To that end, the talk of a potential free trade agreement between Bangladesh and Japan is a positive development. The recent discussion between Japanese Ambassador to Bangladesh, Ito Naoki, and Foreign Minister, Dr AK Abdul Momen, also included plans to extend mutual support in a multitude of relevant avenues, and arrange more visits in honour of the golden jubilee of the relationship.
Japan has been a key supporter in our progress as a nation in terms of social and economic development. As we complete 50 years of bilateral ties with Japan, it is only fitting that the relationship is taken a step further for mutual benefits.
Having an ally like Japan has proven to be immensely beneficial for us in the past, and bolstering the friendship is, surely, the way forward.
It is, thus, crucial that the government be diligent in seeing these discussions through, and ensuring that they come to fruition. If we play our cards right, this will not only pave the way for more investment to come in, but will also assist in our other pursuits, such as the safe and immediate repatriation of the Rohingya refugees.
Bangladesh is on the brink of reaching many more milestones as a country, and this is the time to devote our efforts to our diplomatic ties -- not only with Japan, but other nations as well -- which will aid us significantly in achieving our dreams.
