Japan has expressed that Japan wants to sign a specialized defense agreement with Bangladesh. Initial efforts are underway to sign the agreement within this year.
According to diplomatic sources, if implemented, the agreement will usher in a new chapter in defense cooperation between the two countries through the supply of defense equipment, technology transfer, and joint research.
Last May Professor Muhammad Yunus, the chief advisor to the interim government visited Tokyo, where he met with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. The issue of defense cooperation was of particular importance in the discussions between the two leaders. Following the meeting, Bangladesh and Japan agreed in principle to sign an agreement on defense technology and arms exchange, said officials from the Foreign Ministry in Dhaka.
What is included in the agreement?
According to Japan’s defense policy, the proposed agreement with Bangladesh is based on three key elements: 1. Transfer of defense equipment: Naval patrol vessels, communication systems, surveillance technology and non-lethal military equipment. 2. Joint research: Cooperation in the fields of cyber security, satellite technology, coastal surveillance, 3. Strict control system: The supplied weapons cannot be transferred to any third country and the area of use must be limited to certain limits.
Security and defense analysts say that while the deal is undoubtedly positive for Bangladesh, it could have geopolitical repercussions, as Bangladesh has been procuring weapons from China for a long time. China may feel a little uncomfortable if strategic cooperation with Japan increases. Therefore, Dhaka will have to move forward by maintaining a balance between the major powers.
After Japan relaxed its laws on the export of military equipment, its defense companies are looking for markets in several Asian countries. Japanese Ambassador Ito Naoki said in an interview given in Dhaka in 2022 that potential cooperation with Bangladesh was being seriously considered. At that time, a delegation from Mitsubishi Electronics visited Dhaka to discuss the Air Force’s radar and air defense technology.
According to sources, Japan is also considering a proposal to sell weapons on a financial assistance basis if necessary. This issue was discussed earlier during the preparations for Sheikh Hasina’s visit to Tokyo, although the visit was postponed. Bangladesh Institute of Peace and Security Studies (BIPSS) President Major General (Retd.) A. N. M. Muniruzzaman believes, “Under this agreement, Bangladesh will not only receive weapons but also technical assistance. This is important in enhancing the capabilities of the armed forces. Since there are no binding political conditions, Bangladesh will benefit greatly from this.
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