Minister Hussen announces support for development projects in Bangladesh and the Indo-Pacific region
News release
March 9, 2025 – Ottawa, Canada - Global Affairs Canada
Canada and Bangladesh are steadfast partners working to advance mutual priorities and strengthen global sustainable development. This multifaceted partnership shares the united goals of gender parity, education and tackling climate change. Canada’s commitment to global partnerships will strengthen inclusion, reduce poverty and contribute to prosperity for Canadians.
Earlier this week, the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development, alongside Member of Parliament Parm Bains, announced $272.1 million of funding to development projects in Bangladesh and the broader Indo-Pacific region. Wednesday’s announcement, made while meeting with the Bangladesh community in Vancouver, reinforces Canada’s dedication to creating a more sustainable and collaborative world.
Canada’s support will focus on gender equality, sexual and reproductive health and rights, as well as improved access to inclusive education and skills training for today’s labour market. These initiatives reflect Canada’s deep-rooted values of protecting women’s rights as outlined in Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy, where the goal is for women and girls around the world to be empowered to reach their full potential.
Canada’s support will also improve climate action through nature-based solutions, advancing green innovations and strengthening disaster preparedness. The projects will improve the overall quality of life for people in the Indo-Pacific region and reduce poverty on a global scale.
Canada’s continued support on the advancement of the UN’s Sustainable Development goals, will lead to better opportunities for the future and make vulnerable communities a safer place for all.
Quotes
“During my most recent visit to Bangladesh, I had the privilege of witnessing Canada’s support in action, through Canadian funded projects that provide impactful humanitarian assistance and essential healthcare services for new mothers. Canada continues to fiercely strengthen our long-lasting friendship with Bangladesh and the wider Indo-Pacific region with our long-standing people-to-people ties. By supporting vulnerable communities’ healthcare services, empowering women and addressing climate change, we are creating a brighter tomorrow for the global community.”
- Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development
Quick facts
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Canada and Bangladesh have 53 years of diplomatic ties with Canada providing more than $6.2 billion of international assistance.
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People-to-people links between Canada and Bangladesh are expanding as the Bangladeshi-Canadian community is estimated at more than 100,000 people.
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1 in 5 Canadians have family ties to the Indo-Pacific region.
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Contacts
Shanti Cosentino
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of International Development
shanti.cosentino@international.gc.ca
Media Relations Office
Global Affairs Canada
media@international.gc.ca
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