Bangladesh seeks Canadian support in its journey towards a middle-income country

The foreign minister has sought more Canadian support in Bangladesh’s journey towards a middle-income country by 2021 and a developed country by 2041.

“In this journey, we would like to see Canada as a close and reliable partner with enhanced assistance and cooperation in social, economic, infrastructure, technological and human resources development sectors,” Abul Hassan Mahmood Ali said on Thursday.

He was speaking at the celebration of the 150th years of Canada Confederation by Canada- Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CanChem) in Dhaka.

High Commissioner Benoît-Pierre Laramée and CanChem President Masud Rahman were also present.

Bangladesh, Canada relations began in 1971 when the North American country stood by Bangladesh.

“Since then Canada has stood by us in our need as a trusted friend and dependable development partner,” the foreign minister said.

Canada has “consistently” been supporting Bangladesh’s efforts towards sustainable economic growth, gender equality, the establishment of the rule of law, and particularly in creating opportunities for children and youth.

“We are inspired by Canadian role in addressing the climate change issues, particularly its pledge for Green Climate Fund (GCF). Current gender-balanced cabinet in Canada has been a true example of women empowerment for the rest of the world,” Ali said.

The bilateral trade exceeded $2 billion marks last year.

The foreign minister said there are still “huge untapped potentials” in trade and investment between the countries, asking for exploring new items and exchange ideas for trade development.

“With a stable political environment and a highly positive economic outlook forecast by leading Market Analysts, we offer a conducive environment for trade and investment for our friends in Canada. Our growth forecast is more than 7 percent for the fiscal year ending in June 2017,” he told the Canadian businessmen.

He also urged them to invest in the 100 Special Economic Zones being established all over Bangladesh especially in power, energy, transportation, ICT, food and agro-processing, light engineering, services and hospitality sectors.

“Canada is the torch-bearer for global peace and development,” he said.

“Present Canadian government’s liberal views and policy on important global issues like migration, refugees, climate change and women empowerment are highly appreciated across the globe”.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has recognised the contribution of the then Prime Minister Pierre Elliott Trudeau who supported Bangladesh in 1971.

She handed over the award to his son present Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at a ceremony in Montreal last year.