DHAKA, Feb 15, 2022 (BSS) - Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen has urged Canada to assist Gambia financially for the proceeding of the Rohingya genocide case against Myanmar in the International Court of Justice (ICJ)case.

The minister made the remark while holding a virtual meeting with Canadian International Development minister Harjit Sajjan on Monday marking the 50th Anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two nations, a foreign ministry press release said here today.

During the meeting, Momen urged Canada to take a leadership role in resolving the Rohingya crisis fearing that their prolonged stay here may result into huge security threat and regional instability due to the possible emergence of extremism and terrorism in the camps. 

The foreign minister thanked Canada for its consistent political and humanitarian support for the displaced and persecuted Rohingyas as well as the ongoing genocide case in the ICJ.

Dr Momen also reiterated Bangladesh’s strong expectation that Canada would deport Nur Chowdhury, the convicted killer of the Father of the Nation Bangbandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, to ensure justice and rule of law.

During the meeting, held at the request of the Canadian side, the two ministers also discussed other issues including Bangladesh’s graduation from LDC status and promotion of bilateral trade and investment.

Bangladesh Foreign Minister emphasized on the need of Head of Government level visit between the two countries especially in the context of 50-year celebration of the bilateral ties.

The two Ministers agreed that the recently established joint working group namely ‘Blue Ribbon’ comprising of private sector representatives of two countries, would positively contribute in promoting trade and investment.

While urging more Canadian investment here, Dr Momen reiterated Bangladesh’s willingness to conclude a Free or Preferential Trade Agreement (FTA or PTA)  with Canada.

He also expressed satisfaction about the progress made in opening direct flight between Dhaka and Toronto, underscoring that this would enhance business and people-to-people contact.

Noting that the number of Bangladeshi students studying in Canada is increasing, he requested to include Bangladesh in the Student Direct Stream (SDS) programme.

Foreign Minister Momen also appreciated recent Canadian donation of COVID-19 vaccines to Bangladesh. 

While lauding Bangladesh’s impressive economic progress including the LDC graduation, the Canadian minister assured that he would discuss with Canadian Trade Minister about the possibility of extension of DFQF till 2030 and also about the possibility of signing FTA or PTA.

On Rohingya issue, he appreciated Bangladesh’s continued hosting of more than one million displaced Rohingyas, and agreed that the ultimate solution must be safe repatriation.

He said the strong international efforts should continue for repatriation; and Canada will continue its political and humanitarian support.

He assured Canada’s willingness to continue support in the socio-economic progress of Bangladesh, including through development assistance.

Foreign Minister Dr Abdul Momen, MP, also issued a statement on the occasion of the 50th Anniversary of Canada-Bangladesh bilateral ties, on February 14, 2022 (yesterday).