Canada has expressed its interest in cooperating with Bangladesh on energy supply, positioning itself as a prospective partner in the supply of oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG).
The proposal was made during a courtesy call paid by a Canadian delegation led by State Minister for International Development Randeep Sarai on Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, at the Prime Minister’s Office in Secretariat on Monday.
During the meeting, energy security was highlighted alongside broader economic cooperation and strategic partnership opportunities, with Bangladesh indicating a positive stance towards considering Canada’s energy supply proposal.
The two sides also discussed renewable energy initiatives, canal digging, and Bangladesh’s 250-million tree plantation programme.
Sarai informed the prime minister that Canada aims to commit CAD13 billion globally in climate finance over the next five years, presenting an opportunity for Bangladesh to benefit from this fund.
In addition, Canada offered cooperation in conducting feasibility studies prior to the implementation of development projects in Bangladesh.
Beyond energy cooperation, detailed discussions were held on strengthening bilateral relations, expanding economic ties, and exploring new strategic avenues.
Tarique mentioned that Bangladesh expects cooperation from friendly nations like Canada in key sectors, including health and education.
Sustainable solution to Rohingya crisis
Addressing the Rohingya crisis, Tarique highlighted that Bangladesh is currently hosting nearly 1.3 million Rohingyas.
He noted that as a densely populated nation facing its own socio-economic challenges, the long-term presence of such a large population places a heavy strain on Bangladesh’s economy and environment.
Stressing that humanitarian aid alone is not enough, he emphasised that the permanent solution lies in the safe, voluntary, and dignified repatriation of the Rohingyas to Myanmar, where the origin and resolution of the crisis reside.
Sarai concurred on the importance of peaceful, safe, and dignified repatriation.
Agriculture, food security and data management
On agriculture and food security, both sides discussed strengthening cooperation in the production and supply chain of commodities such as pulses and oilseeds.
The Canadian delegation informed the prime minister of ongoing activities supported through the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT) to assist Bangladesh’s food security efforts.
Tarique outlined Bangladesh’s planned “Farmer Card” initiative to distribute key inputs such as fertilisers and seeds, noting that government-stored farmer data would enhance agricultural planning and aid delivery.
Discussions touched upon leveraging Canada’s experience in data management and evidence-based planning to support Bangladesh in this sector.
Poverty alleviation and Technical education
Citing World Bank data, Tarique explained that consolidating multiple food subsidy programmes with existing cash transfer schemes and introducing a “Family Card” could lift an additional 2.85 million people out of poverty.
He underscored his government’s focus on fostering economic self-reliance by expanding income and employment opportunities alongside social safety nets.
To enhance skill development, Canada expressed interest in supporting Bangladesh’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programmes.
Discussions also covered potential collaboration in establishing nursing training institutes and producing skilled nurses, an area where Canada currently operates and plans future expansion.
Bangladeshi diaspora and official visit invitation
Sarai commended the initiative, work skills, and positive mindset of the Bangladeshi diaspora and Canadians of Bangladeshi origin.
He mentioned that two individuals of Bangladeshi origin currently serve as members of Parliament in Canada.
At the conclusion of the meeting, he extended an invitation to Tarique to visit Canada.
The government side was represented by State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaid Islam, Advisor to the Prime Minister on Education, Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Mahdi Amin, Prime Minister’s Press Secretary Saleh Shibly, and senior officials.
The Canadian delegation was accompanied by High Commissioner of Canada to Bangladesh Ajit Singh and other high-level officials.
