Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has sought Canada's assistance in recovering funds siphoned off from Bangladesh and laundered to the North American country.
During a meeting with Canadian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Ajit Singh at the State Guest House Jamuna, Prof Yunus highlighted that hundreds of billions of dollars had been illicitly transferred abroad by oligarchs, cronies, and politicians linked to the Sheikh Hasina regime. He pointed out that a significant portion of these funds had been invested in assets, including properties in Toronto's infamous "Begum Para" neighbourhood.
"These funds rightfully belong to the people of Bangladesh. We need your help to identify, freeze, and recover these stolen assets," Prof Yunus urged the Canadian envoy.
High Commissioner Singh expressed appreciation for the interim government's efforts to repatriate stolen wealth and assured Canada's support in the matter. He noted that Canada has mechanisms in place to freeze illicit funds upon identification by the interim government.
"We recognize the importance of your mission and appreciate the progress made. Canada stands ready to assist where needed," Singh affirmed.
In addition to asset recovery, the two sides discussed expanding trade and investment opportunities. The Canadian envoy conveyed his country's interest in increasing business engagements with Bangladesh and announced that a Canadian minister would soon visit Dhaka to explore areas of mutual cooperation.
Prof Yunus recalled his recent discussions with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, where he underscored Bangladesh's readiness for increased trade and investment partnerships.
"We want to attract Canadian companies to relocate their factories to Bangladesh and strengthen economic ties between our nations," he said.
He also advocated for the establishment of a Canadian visa office in Dhaka to facilitate travel and education opportunities for the growing Bangladeshi community in Canada.
Senior Secretary and Principal Coordinator of SDG Affairs, Lamiya Morshed, was also present at the meeting.
