Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Wednesday told a visiting Canadian parliamentary delegation that Bangladesh is undergoing a major transformation as it prepares for a historic national election.“You’ve come at a time when Bangladesh is undergoing a significant transformation—an uprising led by young people. Now we are preparing for the election, which will be a historic moment for the nation,” the Chief Adviser said.He made the remarks when a seven-member Canadian parliamentary delegation led by Senator Salma Ataullahjan called on him at the State Guest House Jamuna.
During the meeting, both sides discussed ways to further strengthen bilateral trade cooperation and address the Rohingya crisis. The Chief Adviser briefed the delegation on the ongoing reforms and preparations for the upcoming February election, and expressed gratitude to Canada for its steadfast support to the Rohingya community.
“Eight years have passed. The return of the Rohingya people to their homeland is the only viable solution—there is no alternative,” Prof Yunus said. “Around 1.2 million people are living here, with thousands of children being born and growing up without clarity about their citizenship or future. They are angry. Now we are facing financial cuts, which make this crisis even more serious.”
Senator Salma Ataullahjan said she would issue a statement on the Rohingya issue and reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to supporting the displaced community.
“I have long spoken about the Rohingya issue. The concern is serious. The world must focus on ensuring their peace and security,” she said, thanking Prof Yunus for his continued advocacy on the matter.
The Canadian delegation also included MP Salma Zahid (Scarborough Centre–Don Valley East, Liberal); Sameer Zuberi, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities and member of the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development; Mahmuda Khan, Global CEO of Human Concern International (HCI); Masum Mahbub, CEO of Human Concern USA (HCUSA); Ahmad Attia, CEO of Gestalt Communications; and Usama Khan, CEO of Islamic Relief Canada.
MP Sameer Zuberi noted Canada’s interest in diversifying its trade relations with Bangladesh.
“We are working to diversify our trade. Bangladesh and Canada share strong people-to-people ties. Our Prime Minister recently visited Asia with the goal of expanding and diversifying trade partnerships,” he said.
Both sides discussed potential trade opportunities in the garment, agriculture, and other sectors, emphasizing the scope for expanding Canadian investment in Bangladesh’s growing export industries.
National Security Adviser Dr. Khalilur Rahman and Senior Secretary on SDG Affairs Lamiya Morshed were also present at the meeting.