BSS, Dhaka

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday urged Japanese businessmen to make larger investments in Bangladesh and help increase bilateral trade.

She made the remarks during outgoing Japanese Ambassador Ito Naoki’s courtesy call on her at the Gono Bhaban.

“Bangladesh is a lucrative place for investment. Japanese private companies can invest in Bangladesh on a larger scale,” she said.

The Japanese ambassador praised Bangladesh’s socioeconomic improvement and hoped that the country would continue to prosper in the days to come, PM’s Deputy Press Secretary KM Shakhawat Moon told the journalists after the conversation.

“Peace, discipline, stability, and democratic process, alongside the socio-economic development in Bangladesh, will continue under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina,” said the ambassador.

Noting Japan’s support in implementing mega projects such as Matarbari Deep-sea Port, the third terminal of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka, and Dhaka Metro Rail, Hasina sought continuous support from the country.

She also asked for Japan’s cooperation in developing a dedicated tourist place for foreigners in Bangladesh.

Terming it a good initiative, the Japanese ambassador expressed his eagerness to cooperate in this regard.

They also talked about the repatriation of the Rohingyas living in Bangladesh.

Hasina appreciated Japan’s involvement in developing Bhashan Char for the refugees.

She also greeted the ambassador over the successful completion of his tenure in Bangladesh.