Siena:Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has called for Canadian support in sectors such as energy, agriculture, and climate finance. This appeal was made during a meeting with a Canadian delegation led by Randeep Sarai, Secretary of State for International Development, at the Secretariat.
According to United News of Bangladesh, During the meeting, discussions covered the strengthening of bilateral relations, economic cooperation, and potential strategic partnerships between Bangladesh and Canada. Key topics included technical and vocational education, food security, poverty alleviation, and renewable energy.
Addressing the Rohingya crisis, Prime Minister Rahman emphasized the importance of the safe, voluntary, and dignified repatriation of approximately 1.3 million Rohingyas to Myanmar. He noted that although humanitarian assistance is vital, repatriation is the only sustainable solution to this crisis.
The Canadian delegation expressed interest in energy cooperation, particularly in oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG), suggesting Canada as a potential partner. Bangladesh showed a willingness to consider this proposal.
In education, Canada showed interest in expanding its cooperation in technical and vocational education and training in Bangladesh, including the establishment of nursing training institutions.
Agricultural cooperation was also discussed, with Canada expressing support for Bangladesh's food security efforts. This includes strengthening the supply of agricultural commodities like pulses and oilseeds, and discussing Bangladesh's Farmers' Card programme to enhance agricultural planning.
The Prime Minister highlighted poverty reduction efforts, citing World Bank data on improving food subsidy programmes and linking them with the Family Card to potentially lift 2.85 million people out of poverty. He stressed the importance of economic self-reliance and expanding income opportunities.
Canada's interest in global climate finance was noted, with potential funding of C$13 billion over five years. This could benefit Bangladesh's renewable energy initiatives and development projects.
Randeep Sarai acknowledged the contributions of Bangladeshi-Canadians and invited Prime Minister Rahman to visit Canada. The meeting was attended by various Bangladeshi and Canadian officials, including the Canadian High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Ajit Singh.