Staff Correspondent

President Mohammed Shahabuddin today called upon the international community, including Canada to take pragmatic measurers to solve the long-standing Rohingya crisis.

The President made this call when the newly appointed Canadian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Ajit Singh presented his credentials to him at Bangabhaban here.

“Nearly 13 lakhs forcibly displaced Myanmar citizens (Rohingyas) have become a huge burden on Bangladesh over the years,” the President mentioned.

He urged the international community including Canada to take strong steps aimed at safe and dignified repatriation of the forcibly displaced Myanmar nationals to their motherland.

Welcoming Canadian new high commissioner to Bangladesh, the Head of State said Canada is one of Bangladesh's development partners and a trusted friend, President's press secretary Md Joynal Abedin told this Correspondent.

Referring to the existing investment-friendly environment in Bangladesh, the President urged Canadian investors to invest in Bangladesh's various potential sectors, including physical infrastructure and communication as well.

He emphasized on the exchange of visits at the government and private sector levels to explore the trade and investment potentials of the two countries.

Noting that the relationship between the people of Bangladesh and Canada is increasing gradually, the President hoped that the existing relations between the two countries will reach a new height during the tenure of the new High Commissioner of Canada.

During the meeting, Canada's newly appointed High Commissioner Ajit Singh said the labour force of Bangladesh is playing a significant role in Canada's economy.

He said his country's cooperation in socio-economic development of Bangladesh would continue in the days to come.

The High Commissioner sought full cooperation of the President in fulfilling his assignment in Bangladesh.

Earlier, on his arrival at Bangabhaban, a smartly turned-out contingent of the horse-mounted President Guard Regiment (PGR) has given a 'Guard of Honour' to the high commissioner as part of state ceremony.

Senior Secretary to the President's Office Dr Nasimul Gani, Military Secretary Major General Mohammad Adil Chowdhury and Foreign Secretary Jasim Uddin were present there, among others.