The Government of Japan and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) signed an agreement on Wednesday with Japan becoming a key partner in strengthening Bangladesh’s efforts towards free, transparent, and inclusive national elections.

The agreement was signed at the Bangladesh Election Commission (BEC) Secretariat by Saida Shinichi, Ambassador of Japan to Bangladesh, and Stefan Liller, Resident Representative of UNDP Bangladesh, in the presence of Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin and ISHIIZUKI Hideo, Director-General of the International Cooperation Bureau, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.

Under this partnership, Japan will provide grant assistance of JPY 695 million (approximately USD 4.8 million) to enhance the institutional, technical, and operational capacity of the Bangladesh Election Commission. The project aims to strengthen voter and civic education, encourage greater participation of women, youth, and underrepresented groups, and support measures to ensure transparency and integrity throughout the electoral process.

Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin welcomed Japan’s support, noting, “This partnership will help us further strengthen our systems and deliver elections that uphold public trust and democratic values.”

Speaking at the ceremony, Ambassador Saida said “Bangladesh stands at a pivotal moment in its democratic journey. With respect for Bangladesh’s ownership, Japan fully supports Bangladesh’s effort to carry out a peaceful and democratic political transition through free, fair, and inclusive elections. We hope that Japan’s assistance through UNDP will contribute significantly to these efforts.”

Also speaking at the event, Stefan Liller, Resident Representative of UNDP Bangladesh, expressed deep appreciation for Japan’s generous support and long-standing partnership.

He said that “Japan’s support reinforces our shared goal of helping Bangladesh hold peaceful and credible elections that truly reflect the will of its people.”

Japan’s support for this electoral assistance is part of its wider partnership with Bangladesh and its commitment to promoting peace, human security, and democratic development across the Indo-Pacific region.