Canada is interested in expanding engagement with Bangladesh’s defence institutions, said Canadian High Commission Ajit Singh in a meeting with Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Mohammad Nazmul Hassan.

The Canadian High Commission is exploring opportunities for collaboration between reputable Canadian industry partners and Bangladeshi defence institutions, Ajit Singh said in the meeting, the Canadian High Commission said in a statement on Tuesday.

Canada values Bangladesh’s significant contributions to international peace and security, Ajit Singh added.

The Canadian High Commissioner also met Bangladesh Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan, for holding productive discussions on Bangladesh-Canada defence cooperation.

The “warm meetings with the chiefs of two services” covered shared priorities, including training, capacity building and deepening defence industry ties, said the High Commission in its statement.

High Commissioner Ajit Singh highlighted the strong capabilities of Canadian defence, maritime and aerospace suppliers, whose technologies and services support modernization, safety, and interoperability, with global partners.

Ajit Singh also received an update on preparations for the upcoming election, which will be the “largest in Bangladesh’s history.”

He appreciated Bangladesh’s Armed Forces for the positive role they have played in maintaining stability towards a peaceful democratic transition in Bangladesh.