Bangladesh's Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain has underscored the “considerable challenges” in accommodating Rohingya refugees and emphasized the necessity of ensuring sustainable repatriation efforts. The issue was a key topic of discussion during a courtesy meeting between Touhid and Canadian Minister of International Development Ahmed Hussen at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday (February 10).

During the meeting, Minister Hussen praised Bangladesh’s substantial humanitarian contributions in hosting the Rohingya population and reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to advocating for their repatriation in international forums. In response, the Bangladeshi foreign adviser expressed appreciation for Canada’s continued support on this pressing regional and global issue.

Touhid also encouraged the Canadian government to consider collaborative efforts at the upcoming international conference on the Rohingya issue, scheduled for the middle of this year. Both officials engaged in extensive discussions aimed at strengthening the enduring partnership between Bangladesh and Canada across multiple sectors, including trade, investment, capacity building, skill development, technical assistance, agriculture, and people-to-people connections.

Minister Hussen acknowledged the Bangladeshi community's notable contributions in Canada and expressed keen interest in expanding collaborative relations. He also commended the ongoing reform initiatives in Bangladesh and reiterated Canada’s steadfast support for the country's government, under the leadership of Prof Muhammad Yunus.

Further discussions explored key areas of mutual interest, including trade and investment prospects, labour reforms, advancements in the financial sector, health sector collaborations, and humanitarian support for the displaced Rohingya population. Both parties agreed on finalizing a foreign investment and protection act to foster a conducive business environment and attract Canadian investors to explore opportunities in Bangladesh.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to deepening bilateral ties and working together on mutual priorities, reinforcing the long-standing friendship between the two nations.
 

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