Bangladesh is seeking enhanced cooperation with Canada in livestock development, safe animal-based food production, food security, and capacity building for international trade. A high-level delegation from the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, led by Secretary Md Delwar Hossain, recently held a bilateral meeting with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) in Ottawa. The discussions covered a broad range of topics including livestock development, food security, animal health, veterinary services, animal feed quality control, disease surveillance, research, institutional capacity building, and the implementation of Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) measures.
Focus on Safe Animal-Based Foods and Export Capacity
During the meeting, Secretary Delwar Hossain emphasized the government's priority to produce safe animal-based foods in line with international standards and enhance the country's export capacity. He highlighted the importance of technical assistance from the CFIA in further strengthening Bangladesh's capacity in this sector. The delegation included Director General of the Department of Livestock Services (DLS) Md Shahzaman Khan and Deputy Director Md Shariful Haque.
Potential for Expanded Trade and Technical Cooperation
Dr. Prarthi Muthukumarasamy, Director General of the CFIA, welcomed the delegation and expressed interest in strengthening cooperation to improve food safety, animal health, and regulatory frameworks. He noted that greater exchanges of knowledge, technology, and experience between the relevant institutions of the two countries would contribute to achieving common goals in these areas. Both sides expressed optimism that the meeting would open new avenues for long-term cooperation in livestock development, safe food production, and international trade between Bangladesh and Canada.
