Describing the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) as one of Bangladesh’s largest development partners, Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Adviser Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said the agency has made significant contributions to the country’s infrastructure development, local governance, safe water supply, and a wide range of public service initiatives. He expressed hope that development cooperation between Bangladesh and JICA would continue to expand and deepen in the years ahead.
The remarks came during a courtesy meeting with JICA President Dr. Akihiko Tanaka at the Secretariat on Sunday (July 5).
During the meeting, the two sides reviewed ongoing development projects and explored opportunities for future collaboration. Discussions focused on key areas including waste management, safe drinking water, strengthening local government institutions, sustainable urban development, and improving the quality of public services.
The adviser said Bangladesh is advancing rapidly on its development journey under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, adding that the government is committed to accelerating the implementation of development projects in a more efficient and effective manner. He noted that all relevant stakeholders are working in close coordination to achieve these objectives.
He further emphasized that the government attaches great importance to partnerships with international development agencies in its efforts to build a modern, efficient, and people-centred local government system. In this regard, he said JICA’s longstanding experience, technical expertise, and investment would continue to play a vital role in supporting Bangladesh’s sustainable development goals.
Also present at the meeting were Local Government Division Secretary Md. Shahidul Hasan, Director General of the Monitoring, Evaluation and Inspection Wing Md. Mahmudul Hasan, NDC, along with other senior officials from the ministry.
Officials believe the meeting will further strengthen the long-standing development partnership between Bangladesh and JICA while opening new avenues for future cooperation, particularly in the local government sector and other priority areas.