Ambassador of Japan to Bangladesh Shinichi Saida on Thursday reaffirmed Japan’s longstanding support for democratic governance in Bangladesh.

“This election is a significant step in shaping a new chapter for Bangladesh. Japan stands firmly beside Bangladesh in its democratic progress," he said at a function.

Bangladesh Election Commission (BEC) received a set of essential electoral materials for use on election day, supported by the Government of Japan through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Bangladesh.

The handover took place at BEC under the UN’s BALLOT project, implemented in collaboration with UNESCO and UN Women, and supported by development partners committed to strengthening transparent and inclusive electoral processes.

Chief Election Commissioner A M M Nasir Uddin highlighted the collective responsibility ahead, noting,

"What matters most is still ahead of us; the delivery of a transparent, neutral, credible, and fully participatory election. As we take the next steps, we will require continued support to build our capacity, and we are grateful to Japan, UNDP, and our partners for standing firmly with us in this national responsibility.”

UNDP Resident Representative Stefan Liller underscored the significance of the partnership in advancing electoral readiness.

"Today marks another important milestone in Bangladesh’s election preparations. With Japan’s support, we have already helped register nearly eight million voters, and this new handover reinforces the commitment to ensure one person, one vote. The Election Commission has shown remarkable dedication, and we are proud to stand with them as Bangladesh enters a crucial phase of its electoral journey.”

The event was attended by Susan Vize, Head of Office, UNESCO; Gitanjali Singh, UN Women Representative in Bangladesh; Andres Castillo, Chief Technical  Adviser, UNDP, Akhtar Ahmed, Senior Secretary, Election Commission Secretariat; and officials from BEC, UNDP, and partner agencies.

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The BALLOT project supports the Election Commission in strengthening voter registration, enhancing institutional capacity, and promoting transparent electoral processes.

The newly delivered materials will support smooth and credible polling operations nationwide.

UNDP and its partners reiterated their commitment to assisting Bangladesh in ensuring that the upcoming national election upholds the highest standards of integrity, participation, and public trust.