Diplomatic Correspondent: President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has urged Canada to further increase its investment in Bangladesh and expand cooperation in key sectors, including agriculture, food security, fertiliser, information technology, outsourcing, education and healthcare.

He made the call yesterday when Canadian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Ajit Singh paid a courtesy call on him at Bangabhaban.

President’s Press Secretary Md Sarwar Alam told BSS that the Canadian envoy, on behalf of Canadian Governor General Louise Arbour, handed over a congratulatory letter to Mirza Fakhrul on his assumption of the presidency.

The President thanked the Canadian Governor General for the message and praised Canada’s longstanding democratic traditions, seeking Ottawa’s cooperation in strengthening democratic practices in Bangladesh.

“The government is facing difficulties due to the long absence of democracy and parliamentary practices, and it has begun necessary reform activities to institutionalise democracy,” he said.

During the meeting, High Commissioner Singh said bilateral trade between Bangladesh and Canada had crossed C$4 billion annually, while there remained significant scope for further expansion.

Against this backdrop, President Mirza Fakhrul called for increased Canadian investment in Bangladesh, particularly in sectors with strong potential for mutual economic benefits.

He also sought greater Canadian cooperation in agriculture, food security, fertiliser production, IT and outsourcing.

The President placed particular emphasis on cooperation in education and skills development, requesting Canadian support in technical education, technology, nursing and medical education.

The Canadian High Commissioner informed the President that Canada’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs would visit Bangladesh soon, signalling continued high-level engagement between the two countries.

The Rohingya crisis also featured prominently in the discussions. Singh highlighted Canada’s continued humanitarian support for Rohingya refugees, saying Ottawa had so far provided around US$600 million in assistance.

The President expressed appreciation for Canada’s sustained support and urged Ottawa to play a more effective role in mobilising international pressure for the voluntary, safe and dignified return of the Rohingyas to Myanmar.

He also highlighted the contribution of the Bangladeshi community in Canada, noting that more than 100,000 Bangladeshis are playing a role in the country’s development.

The meeting underscored the broad scope of Bangladesh-Canada relations, extending beyond trade and investment to democracy, education, healthcare and the Rohingya issue.

President’s secretaries and senior officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs were present at the meeting. Canadian Political Counsellor Marcus Davies also attended on behalf of Canada.