The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) today commemorated the tenth-year milestone since the Holey Artisan Bakery attack of July 1, 2016, honoring the memory of the seven Japanese nationals who lost their lives in the tragic incident, alongside all others who were affected, a press release said.

A memorial ceremony was held on July 2, 2026, at the Metro Rail Exhibition and Information Center (MEIC) in Uttara, Dhaka. The ceremony brought together representatives from the Governments of Japan and Bangladesh, family members of the victims, development partners, and stakeholders to pay tribute to the victims and reaffirm a shared commitment to peace, resilience, and cooperation.

The seven Japanese nationals were dedicated professionals whose contribution were instrumental in the early development of Bangladesh’s metro rail system. Their efforts played an important role in laying the foundation for the Dhaka Metro Rail that continues to grow and serve millions of commuters and stands as a symbol of progress and partnership between Japan and Bangladesh.

Reflecting on the significance of the occasion, Dr. TANAKA Akihiko, President of JICA, underscored the enduring spirit of cooperation that continues to guide JICA’s work. “Bangladesh has gone through major political and social changes. However, the wish shared by those we have lost—that more people may live better and more fulfilling lives—remains alive in this country. We will carry their wishes forward, along with our strong commitment to safety, and continue our work in international cooperation,” he said.

The ceremony was attended by Dr. TANAKA Akihiko, President of JICA; Mr. YAMADA Tetsuya, Director General of the South Asia Department, JICA; and Ms. TAKAHASHI Junko, Chief Representative of the JICA Bangladesh Office. Distinguished guests included Mr. SHIMADA Tomoaki, Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan; His Excellency SAIDA Shinichi, Ambassador of Japan to Bangladesh; and officials from the Government and Embassy of Japan.

Representatives from partner organizations involved in Bangladesh’s infrastructure development—including Katahira & Engineers International, Oriental Consultants Global (formerly OLMEc), Tokyu Construction, TOA Corporation, Tekken Corporation, Nippon Signal Co., Ltd., Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Nippon Koei, Marubeni Corporation, and Mitsubishi Corporation—were also present.

From the Government of Bangladesh, senior officials including Dr. Mohammad Ziaul Hoque, Secretary, Road Transport and Highways Division, Ministry of Road Transport and Bridges; Mr. Mohd. Ahsan Kibria Siddiqui, Additional Secretary and Wing Chief of Japan branch at Economic Relations Division; and Mr. Md. Shaugatul Alam, Managing Director, Dhaka Mass Transit Company Limited, attended the ceremony alongside other government representatives.

Marking a decade since the attack, JICA reaffirmed its continued commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s development journey. The Dhaka Metro Rail remains a testament to the enduring partnership between the two countries and a reflection of their shared values of mutual respect, collaboration, and sustainable progress.

As the people of Japan and Bangladesh remember those who were lost, JICA reiterates its resolve to work towards a future defined by peace, safety, and inclusive development, ensuring that the legacy of the victims lives on through continued cooperation and shared achievements.