6 January 2009

Statement by Mr. Hirofumi Nakasone, Minister for Foreign Affairs, on the Inauguration of Her Excellency Sheikh Hasina, New Prime Minister of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh

1.     The Government of Japan congratulates on the inauguration of Her Excellency Sheikh Hasina, President of the Awami League as Prime Minister of Bangladesh on January 6, 2009, following the general election on December 29, 2008, held in a free, fair, and peaceful manner. 

2.     This election was successfully carried out despite various challenges. This exemplifies that a consolidation of democracy in Bangladesh is making a steady progress, marking a right start of a new democracy in Bangladesh.   

3.                  The Government of Japan hopes that the people of Bangladesh will be united in making efforts for further development of their country under the new Prime Minister elected in a democratic process. Japan will continue to support their endeavour. 

 (END)