Momen Seeks More Canadian Investment in Economic Zones, Hi-Tech Parks

Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen has called for larger investment from Canada in the 100 special economic zones and 28 high-tech parks in Bangladesh, considering its young and energetic workforce and lucrative investment package, reports media.

The minister came up with the call during a virtual meeting with Canadian Minister for International Development Harjit Sajjan on Monday, according to a press release issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

He also reiterated Bangladesh’s willingness to conclude a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) or Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) with Canada.

Both ministers discussed a wide range of issues in the meeting, marking the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two nations.

Bangladesh and Canada established diplomatic relations on February 14, 1972.

Noting that Canada and Bangladesh are enjoying very close and congenial relations, the ministers underscored that both the countries need to further take forward the bilateral ties.

Harjit Sajjan appreciated Bangladesh’s impressive economic progress in recent years, including the LDC graduation.

He assured that he would discuss with the Canadian trade minister about the possibility of signing FTA or PTA and the extension of DFQF (duty-free quota-free) market access till 2030.

During the meeting, Foreign Minister Momen put emphasis on the need for head of government level visits.

He thanked Canada for its consistent political and humanitarian support for the displaced and persecuted Rohingyas, including for the genocide case (filed by The Gambia) ongoing in the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

He requested Canada to come forward to assist The Gambia through making financial support for the proceeding of the case.

Momen also urged Canada to take a leadership role in resolving the Rohingya crisis.

The foreign minister reiterated Bangladesh’s strong expectation that Nur Chowdhury, the convicted killer of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, would be deported from Canada to Bangladesh, underscoring that this would ensure justice and rule of law.