Today, the newly-appointed High Commissioner of Canada to Bangladesh, H. E. Ajit Singh, paid a courtesy call on the Foreign Secretary, Ambassador Mr. Md. Jashim Uddin ndc, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and diplomats from the High Commission of Canada in Dhaka were also present at the meeting. The Foreign Secretary expressed warm congratulations to H.E. Mr. Ajit Singh on his recent appointment as the High Commissioner of Canada to Bangladesh.
The Foreign Secretary briefed the High Commissioner an overview of the measures that the Government of Bangladesh has taken regarding various reform initiatives. The Canadian High Commissioner expressed appreciation for the actions undertaken by the Government and commended the notable advancements made across various sectors. They engaged in a comprehensive discussion on key issues, encompassing financial sector and revenue reforms, trade and investment, law enforcement reforms, and humanitarian responses concerning the Rohingya crisis. The Foreign Secretary highlighted the current administration’s strong dedication to combating corruption and money laundering and requested the support of the Government of Canada in the recovery of laundered funds originating from Bangladesh. He also flagged the daunting challenges faced by Bangladesh in hosting approximately 1.3 million Rohingyas and expressed a desire for Canada’s support in facilitating their safe and sustainable return to their homeland. The Foreign Secretary has requested to expedite Canadian visa processing for Bangladeshi nationals, with particular emphasis on students. The High Commissioner acknowledged the concerns and assured him of extending best possible support.
The two dignitaries reiterated their commitment to enhancing the already strong bilateral relationship between the two countries, particularly in areas of trade, investment, agriculture, capacity building, skill development, technical assistance, and people-to-people contact. The Foreign Secretary assured the High Commissioner of all possible support of the Government of Bangladesh throughout his tenure, aimed at enhancing the partnership between Bangladesh and Canada.