Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Tuesday commended Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s leadership, characterizing Bangladesh as a partner sharing the principles of democracy and the rule of law and promised firm assistance for his administration’s nation-building initiatives.

“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 in a post on her official X account following the bilateral summit talks with her Bangladeshi counterpart in Tokyo on the second day of PM Tarique Rahman's four-day official visit to Japan from October 26 to 29.

Japanese PM Takaichi stated that Japan would robustly back the nation-building endeavors of the Bangladesh administration established after democratic general elections.

“Japan will strongly support the nation-building efforts of the Rahman administration, which was formed following 'democratic general elections,” she said.

The session highlighted Japan's acknowledgment of Bangladesh's democratic transition and its eagerness to enhance collaboration with the incoming administration.

PM Takaichi noted that Bangladesh continues to be a crucial partner for Japan in achieving a Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP), emphasizing the nation's strategic geographical location bridging South and Southeast Asia.

She mentioned that both heads of government had reiterated their pledge to advance the Bay of Bengal Industrial Growth Belt (BIG-B) initiative, a pivotal pillar of bilateral economic partnership.

The initiative is set to be upgraded into a new strategic cooperation scheme designated “Sharing Prosperity BIG-B” under the leadership of the two prime ministers.

The Japanese premier additionally underscored Bangladesh's economic potential, portraying the nation as a vast and vibrant market of 170 million citizens holding increasing significance for Japan's economy.

“Bangladesh, which connects Southeast Asia and South Asia, holds immense importance for Japan's economy,” she said.

Alluding to their talks, PM Takaichi noted that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman had remembered Japan's enduring alliance with Bangladesh and its early recognition of the nation's sovereignty.

PM Tarique Rahman likewise conveyed gratitude for Japan's contributions to Bangladesh's progress across diverse sectors and depicted Japan as a unique partner for the Bangladeshi populace.

According to PM Takaichi, PM Tarique Rahman particularly acknowledged Japan's legacy as a peace-loving state and its steadfast backing for Bangladesh since independence.

The Japanese prime minister remarked that both nations would collaborate intimately via public- and private-sector programs to further fortify their strategic partnership.

She cited the joint declaration released after the summit, indicating it would direct the future trajectory of bilateral engagement.

“Under our two countries' 'strategic partnership'—and in light of the 'Joint Statement by the Leaders' announced today—we will work together through government and private-sector initiatives between our nations,” she wrote.

PM Takaichi reaffirmed her determination to work hand in hand with Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to advance peace, stability, and collective prosperity throughout the Indo-Pacific domain.

“Toward peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region, I will closely collaborate with Prime Minister Rahman,” she said.

The bilateral meeting represented a major step toward enhancing Bangladesh-Japan ties, with both leaders underlining mutual democratic principles, economic synergy, and a shared dedication to regional peace and prosperity.