Canada supports Bangladesh’s democratic aspirations, economic growth

Bangladesh High Commissioner to Canada, Nahida Sobhan, highlighted Canada’s enduring support for the people of Bangladesh and their aspirations for democracy and social justice. In an interview with Views Bangladesh’s senior reporter Md Mizanur Rahman Himadri. she said that this support stems from a longstanding tradition of solidarity, which began with Canada’s substantial backing during Bangladesh’s War of Independence in 1971.

Views Bangladesh: Bangladesh has established a new interim government led by Nobel Laureate Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus, following the student-led movement that brought down the previous government of Sheikh Hasina. How are the Canadian government and its citizens perceiving this student-driven revolution in Bangladesh?

Nahida Sobhan: Canada has long supported the democratic aspirations of Bangladesh, dating back to its 1971 independence. Recently, Canada welcomed the student-led movement and the new interim government under Nobel Laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus, seeing it as a key step toward peace and democratic renewal. This commitment was emphasized during a meeting between the Chief Advisor Dr. Muhammad Yunus and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at the 79th UNGA, where they discussed youth development, institutional rebuilding, and democratic governance.

Views Bangladesh: In 2023, foreign direct investment (FDI) in Bangladesh declined, reaching $3.0 billion compared to $3.5 billion in 2022. Do you anticipate increased Canadian investment in Bangladesh, especially in the power and energy sectors? How would you assess the current investment climate in Bangladesh?

Nahida Sobhan: Several Canadian firms, including Brookfield, have shown interest in supporting Bangladesh’s energy transition amid climate change challenges. A recent visit by Canada’s Indo-Pacific Trade Representative underscores Canada’s commitment to strengthening business ties. To advance this partnership, a Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (FIPA) is key. Bangladesh’s interim government is focused on structural reforms—stabilizing the currency, controlling inflation, addressing arrears, maintaining capital stability, and reforming banking laws—to foster a more stable, investor-friendly environment and boost Canadian investment.

Views Bangladesh: Bangladesh-Canada bilateral trade currently stands around $3 billion. What is our target for expanding this trade over the next five years?

Nahida Sobhan: Bangladesh is committed to strengthening trade relations with Canada, focusing on diversifying exports beyond the traditional ready-made garments sector and building economic resilience in line with the new government’s vision for sustainable growth. To support this, the High Commission is prioritizing business-to-business (B2B) meetings to promote Bangladeshi products and expand trade diversity. Both countries are actively working with the Canada-Bangladesh Joint Working Group’s recommendations to identify and leverage new opportunities for enhanced economic cooperation.

Views Bangladesh: How many Bangladeshis currently reside in your country, and how does your government assess their contributions? Additionally, could you outline your current immigration policy?

Nahida Sobhan: Over 100,000 Bangladeshis live in Canada, contributing notably to fields like healthcare, engineering, academia, and business, while strengthening cultural and bilateral ties. Bangladesh’s interim government is advocating for streamlined immigration and student visa processes to further support youth and diaspora engagement.

Views Bangladesh: Can Canada consider recruiting more skilled professionals from Bangladesh, particularly doctors, engineers, and nurses?

Nahida Sobhan: Canada stands to benefit from skilled Bangladeshi professionals, particularly in healthcare. Since becoming High Commissioner, I’ve focused on promoting these opportunities. While Bangladeshi physicians can work in Canada, they must pass Canadian licensing exams to meet regulatory requirements.

Views Bangladesh: Developing countries like Bangladesh are among the most affected by climate change. How do Canada and Bangladesh collaborate on climate change issues? Do you believe developed countries should provide compensation to developing nations for the impacts of climate change?

Nahida Sobhan: Bangladesh and Canada are committed to addressing climate change through joint projects, capacity-building, and knowledge-sharing to enhance climate resilience in Bangladesh. The interim government prioritizes environmental policies and international partnerships, with a focus on leveraging Canadian expertise. Financial support from developed countries, as emphasized by the Chief Advisor at the 79th UNGA, is crucial for climate justice and enabling vulnerable nations like Bangladesh to pursue resilience strategies without hindering development.

Views Bangladesh: Over the past 20 years, Bangladesh's institutions have weakened. Can Canada offer soft loans and support to help strengthen these institutions?

Nahida Sobhan: Institutional building and governance reform are key priorities for the new interim government, aiming to create stronger and more accountable institutions to meet the people’s aspirations. Canada has expressed interest in supporting these efforts through capacity-building programmes.

Views Bangladesh: Bangladesh’s export basket is heavily reliant on ready-made garments. Can Canada assist in diversifying Bangladesh’s exports?

Nahida Sobhan: There is potential to diversify Bangladesh’s exports to Canada beyond ready-made garments (RMG). I have observed strong interest from Canada in expanding trade, particularly in the service sector. To seize this opportunity, Bangladeshi exporters must align their offerings with Canada’s needs.

Views Bangladesh: Thank you

Nahida Sobhan: Thank you too