PM seeks Japan's leading role in construction of Padma Bridge

Expressing gratitude to Japan's investment and assistance in major development projects as a single largest developing partner of Bangladesh, she called for Japan's principal role when newly appointed Ambassador Masayuki Inoue made a courtesy call on the PM at her office.

Khaleda said her government would as well as Japan could invite World Bank and Asian Development Bank for their financial support in construction of the country's largest bridge over mighty river Padma.

She assured that Bangladesh would also provide funds and other support in this regard.

Japan has already conducted a technical feasibility study for construction of the Padma Bridge.

During the meeting, both sides emphasised high level exchange of visits between the two countries to further strengthen the present excellent relations and bilateral cooperation.

The Ambassador informed the prime minister that the Foreign Minister of Japan would visit Bangladesh next month.

Khaleda also hoped that Japan would increase trade, commerce and investment here and also relocate some of its industries, now in Japan and other countries, to Bangladesh availing the investment incentives, business-friendly atmosphere and advantage of cheap labour, which would benefit the two peoples.