Dhaka: Canada has expressed interest to have direct flights on Dhaka-Toronto route and wants to be partner of Bangladesh for the development of civil aviation sector.

Canadian High Commissioner in Dhaka Benoit Pierre Laramee conveyed his country’s interest during his meeting with Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Rashed Khan Menon at the latter’s office at the Secretariat on Monday.  

On the current political situation, the diplomat said this is Bangladesh’s internal problem and Bangladesh will resolve it, according to a media release issued by the ministry.

Appreciating Bangladesh’s socioeconomic development, Laramee said the progressing economy of Bangladesh will soon bring about changes in the lifestyle.  

He expressed his country’s interest to become Bangladesh’s partner for its infrastructure development, including airports under the Public-Private Partnership.

The civil aviation minister said Bangladesh is a perfect destination for investment and urged the envoy to play role in encouraging Canadian investors to invest in Bangladesh’s various sectors, including civil aviation and tourism sectors.

Menon said Bangladesh and Canada are friendly countries and described government’s various initiatives taken for the development of civil aviation and tourism sector.  

He also said Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport is being modernised. “Construction of Cox’s Bazar international airport is also under process.”

The Canadian high commissioner shared his experience of visiting Hatirjheel and various shopping malls and said he had no idea that Bangladesh is so much modern.