Bangladesh, Japan sign defence technology transfer agreement

Bangladesh and Japan have signed an agreement on the transfer of defence equipment and technology, a move expected to accelerate Bangladesh’s defence modernisation and strengthen bilateral strategic ties.  

The signing took place at Dhaka Cantonment under the overall supervision of the Armed Forces Division (AFD).

Lt Gen SM Kamrul Hasan, principal staff officer of the AFD, signed on behalf of Bangladesh, while Japanese Ambassador Saida Shinichi signed for Japan.  

In a notification, the AFD said the agreement would elevate the two countries’ long-standing friendship and strategic partnership to a new height.

The deal was made possible through close and continued efforts by both sides since 2023, it said.

The division described the agreement as a product of the interim government’s far-sighted and effective diplomacy. It said the deal was concluded in full conformity with the principles of the United Nations Charter and would create an institutional framework for acquiring advanced technology and defence equipment, alongside joint research and development.  

The agreement will also increase the exchange of military experts between Bangladesh and Japan, the AFD added.