Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Monday sought Canadian support in energy, agriculture and climate finance, while stressing that the safe, voluntary and dignified repatriation of around 1.3 million Rohingyas to Myanmar remains the only sustainable solution to the crisis.

He made the remarks during a meeting with a Canadian delegation led by Randeep Sarai, Canada’s Secretary of State for International Development, at his office at the Secretariat.

The meeting focused on strengthening bilateral relations, expanding economic cooperation and exploring new avenues for a strategic partnership between Bangladesh and Canada, according to PM’s Deputy Press Secretary Shahadat Hossain Shadhin.

Discussions also covered technical and vocational education, food security, poverty reduction, renewable energy and climate finance.

Rohingya Repatriation a Priority

Tarique Rahman said Bangladesh is hosting around 1.3 million Rohingyas, placing significant pressure on the country’s economy and environment while it continues to address its own development challenges.

He stressed that although humanitarian assistance for the displaced people remains essential, their safe, voluntary and dignified return to Myanmar is the only lasting solution to the crisis.

Sarai echoed the importance of ensuring the peaceful, safe and dignified repatriation of the Rohingyas.

Cooperation in Energy and Skills Development

Canada expressed interest in expanding cooperation with Bangladesh in energy supplies, particularly oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG), identifying the country as a potential partner in these sectors. Bangladesh said it would consider the proposal positively.

The two sides also discussed strengthening technical and vocational education and training (TVET), as well as cooperation in establishing nursing training institutions and developing skilled nurses. Canada indicated plans to expand its existing activities in this sector.

Agriculture and Food Security

Agricultural cooperation was another key focus, with discussions covering the production and supply of pulses, oilseeds and other essential commodities.

Canada expressed interest in supporting Bangladesh’s food security efforts. The meeting also reviewed ongoing programmes involving the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT).

The Prime Minister outlined the government’s Farmers’ Card programme, which aims to provide farmers with essential agricultural inputs, including fertiliser and seeds.

He said the initiative would help build a comprehensive database of farmers, improve agricultural planning and ensure more effective delivery of government assistance. The two sides also discussed how Bangladesh could benefit from Canada’s experience in data management and evidence-based policymaking.

Family Card and Poverty Reduction

Referring to World Bank data, Tarique Rahman said integrating food subsidy programmes, improving existing cash assistance schemes and linking them with the Family Card could help lift an additional 2.85 million people out of poverty.

He emphasised that the government aims to promote economic self-reliance by expanding employment and income-generating opportunities alongside social protection programmes.

Climate Finance and Renewable Energy

The meeting also covered renewable energy initiatives, canal excavation and the government’s plan to plant 250 million trees.

Sarai said Canada was interested in providing C$13 billion in global climate finance over the next five years, adding that Bangladesh could benefit from the funding. Canada also expressed interest in supporting feasibility studies for development projects in the country.

Invitation to Visit Canada

Sarai praised Bangladeshis and people of Bangladeshi origin living in Canada for their skills, initiative and positive outlook. He also noted that two people of Bangladeshi origin serve as members of the Canadian Parliament.

At the end of the meeting, he invited Tarique Rahman to visit Canada.

State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam, Prime Minister’s Adviser on Education, Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Mahdi Amin, Press Secretary Saleh Shibly and relevant officials attended the meeting.

Canadian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Ajit Singh and senior Canadian officials were also present.

Sun News/ rabbi