"The contribution of Japan to the development of economy, infrastructure and human resources of the country is immense," he said, adding, "The relations between the two friendly countries are not linked to any politics."

The minister was speaking as the chief guest at a seminar on "the role of Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in the socio-economic development of Bangladesh."

JICA Alumni Association of Bangladesh organised the seminar in the city to mark its 30th anniversary. JICA Bangladesh office was established in 1974 to support the development efforts of Bangladesh.

Moudud said that despite the adverse impact of overpopulation, poverty, unemployment and malnutrition, Bangladesh has achieved significant progress in key fields such as education, health, good governance and empowerment of women.

The minister hoped that Japan would further increase its grants for Bangladesh in future.

Japanese Ambassador Matsushiro Horiguchi, who was present as special guest, said Japan has so far provided higher training for 4,000 Bangladeshi experts under the JICA programme.

Chairman of the Centre for Development Research of Bangladesh Mizanur Rahman Shelley presented a keynote paper.

Resident representatives of JICA Akio Arai, JICA Alumni Association President M Golam Kibria Bhuiyan, General Secretary E Ejar Uddin and Research secretary Prof M Mofazzal Hossain also spoke.