Canadian MP Chandra Arya has extolled Bangladesh's economic growth and asked his country to lead Western democracies in supporting and strengthening the South Asian nation so it continues to protect religious minorities and maintain stability.
"This is required to ensure that Bangladesh achieves much-required economic growth," he said in parliament following his recent visit to Dhaka.
During his visit, he met Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and other government officials.
"I also visited Hindu temples, Buddhist monasteries and a church, and I met dozens of religious minority community leaders. I met many business leaders as well.
"With stability in the country and certainty in economic policies, Bangladesh has seen excellent economic growth for several years, thus lifting millions of its citizens from poverty.
"Foreign investment in infrastructure projects like special economic zones is further boosting the economy and creating much-needed jobs," he said.
"At this important time, I call on Canada to lead Western democracies in supporting and strengthening Bangladesh so it continues to protect religious minorities and maintain stability."
