China, Canada commit to deeper engagement with Bangladesh on trade, humanitarian assistance

China and Canada have expressed strong interest in enhancing cooperation with Bangladesh in areas of trade diversification, investment, and humanitarian assistance, particularly in support of the Rohingya community.

The commitments were made during bilateral meetings held today (10 July) between Bangladesh's Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain and the foreign ministers of China and Canada on the sidelines of the 32nd ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) in Kuala Lumpur, read a press release.

During his meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, both sides reaffirmed the strength of Bangladesh-China relations and discussed future areas of collaboration.

Wang Yi extended China's full support to the reform agenda of the current Bangladeshi government, led by Muhammad Yunus.

He emphasised China's interest in supporting key sectors such as medical tourism, water management, textiles, energy, and light engineering.

Foreign Adviser Touhid conveyed his deep appreciation for China's political and developmental support and reiterated Bangladesh's call for a swift and sustainable solution to the Rohingya crisis.

He sought China's continued assistance on regional and multilateral fronts, including within the United Nations.

In a separate meeting with Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand, the two sides explored avenues to broaden bilateral cooperation, focusing on trade diversification and building economic resilience.

Minister Anand assured Canada's continued support for Bangladesh's efforts in addressing the protracted Rohingya crisis.

The foreign adviser was accompanied by Bangladesh's High Commissioner to Malaysia, Ambassador Shameem Ahsan, Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Md Forhadul Islam, and other senior officials.

Touhid is currently leading the Bangladesh delegation to the 32nd ARF Ministerial Meeting, which is set to take place tomorrow in the Malaysian capital.