Dhaka:Canada's Secretary of State (International Development) Randeep Sarai commenced a four-day visit to Bangladesh on Sunday to strengthen economic cooperation and forge a strategic partnership between the two nations.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Sarai's visit from October 11 to 14 includes meetings with government officials, development partners, and private sector representatives. He will also visit Canadian-supported projects in Dhaka and Cox's Bazar.
The Canadian High Commission in Dhaka stated that the visit underscores Canada's efforts in international assistance aimed at strengthening institutions, developing skills, and expanding opportunities for women and youth. These initiatives are intended to lay the groundwork for sustainable economic growth and future trade and investment.
Since Bangladesh's independence, Canada has contributed over $6.3 billion CAD in official development assistance. Key beneficiaries include Bangladesh-based NGOs such as BRAC and icddr,b, which have gained global recognition.
Canada sees significant potential to deepen its development partnership with Bangladesh by enhancing trade, investment, and economic cooperation. Bilateral trade is projected to exceed $4 billion CAD by 2025.
The High Commission highlighted that continued reforms in governance, regulatory, and economic environments can improve transparency and predictability, boost investor confidence, and create opportunities for mutual prosperity and inclusive growth in both countries.
Canada's partnership also extends to supporting health, education, gender equality, and climate resilience as Bangladesh undergoes its economic transition.
In Cox's Bazar, Sarai will engage with Rohingyas and the host communities to assess the ongoing crisis response. Since 2017, Canada has been a leading donor to the Rohingya crisis, contributing over $600 million CAD in funding to aid refugees and the host community in Bangladesh.
Canada remains committed to humanitarian support and collaboration with Bangladesh to achieve shared prosperity, inclusive growth, and regional stability.