|| Takaichi hails shared democratic values, unveils ‘Sharing Prosperity BIG-B’ frameworkOnline Desk: Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has pledged strong support for Bangladesh’s nation-building efforts under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, describing Bangladesh as a friend that shares Japan’s commitment to democracy and the rule of law.The pledge came during bilateral summit talks between the two leaders in Tokyo on Tuesday, the second day of Tarique Rahman’s four-day official visit to Japan from October 26 to 29.In a post on her official X account following the meeting, Takaichi said she was delighted to personally congratulate Rahman on his inauguration as prime minister.“As a friend who shares values such as ‘democracy’ and the ‘rule of law,’ I was truly delighted to personally congratulate Prime Minister Rahman on his inauguration,” she wrote.She said Japan would strongly support the nation-building initiatives of the Bangladesh government, which was formed following democratic general elections.The Japanese premier’s remarks underscored Tokyo’s intention to deepen ties with the new government in Dhaka, with democracy, economic development and regional stability emerging as key areas of common interest.Takaichi also reaffirmed Bangladesh’s importance to Japan’s vision of a Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP), highlighting the country’s strategic geographical position linking South Asia and Southeast Asia.She said the two leaders had reaffirmed their commitment to advancing the Bay of Bengal Industrial Growth Belt (BIG-B), a major initiative aimed at promoting economic development and connectivity.The initiative will be elevated into a new strategic cooperation framework titled “Sharing Prosperity BIG-B” under the leadership of the two prime ministers.The framework is expected to provide a renewed basis for bilateral cooperation, bringing greater focus to shared economic opportunities and development priorities.Takaichi described Bangladesh as a country with considerable economic potential, citing its population of around 170 million and its growing importance to Japan’s economy.“Bangladesh, which connects Southeast Asia and South Asia, holds immense importance for Japan’s economy,” she said.Bangladesh’s geographical position, large domestic market and potential for economic expansion make it an important partner for Japan as the two countries seek to strengthen trade, investment and broader regional connectivity.During the talks, Tarique Rahman recalled Japan’s longstanding friendship with Bangladesh, including its early recognition of the country’s independence. He also expressed appreciation for Japan’s contributions to Bangladesh’s development across various sectors.According to Takaichi, Rahman described Japan as a special partner for the Bangladeshi people and acknowledged its longstanding support since Bangladesh’s independence.The Bangladesh prime minister also recognised Japan’s history as a peace-loving nation, highlighting the importance of the relationship between the two countries.Takaichi said the governments and private sectors of both countries would work closely to strengthen their strategic partnership further.Referring to the joint statement issued after the summit, she said the document would guide the future direction of bilateral cooperation.“Under our two countries’ ‘strategic partnership’—and in light of the ‘Joint Statement by the Leaders’ announced yesterday—we will work together through government and private-sector initiatives between our nations,” she wrote.The Japanese prime minister also pledged close cooperation with Rahman to promote peace, stability and shared prosperity across the Indo-Pacific region.“Toward peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region, I will closely collaborate with Prime Minister Rahman,” she said.The summit marks an important step in Bangladesh-Japan relations as Dhaka seeks to strengthen its international partnerships and attract investment to support economic growth.The emphasis on shared democratic values, strategic cooperation and the new “Sharing Prosperity BIG-B” framework signals both countries’ interest in expanding their partnership beyond traditional development cooperation.With Japan reaffirming its support for Bangladesh’s development and both leaders committing to closer government and private-sector engagement, the outcome of the summit is expected to shape the next phase of bilateral relations, with economic cooperation and regional peace remaining central priorities.