Bangladesh seeks Canada‍‍`s help to recover stolen funds: A step towards justice

In a major diplomatic move, Bangladesh‍‍`s Chief Advisor, Professor Muhammad Yunus, has asked for Canada’s help in recovering the massive amounts of money that were illegally taken out of the country and hidden in Canada.

The request was made during a meeting on Tuesday between Professor Yunus and the Canadian High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Ajit Singh, at the State Guest House Jamuna in Dhaka.

Professor Yunus shared that several wealthy businessmen, close allies of the ruling party led by Sheikh Hasina, and various political figures had stolen hundreds of billions of US dollars from Bangladesh. A portion of this money has been funneled into Canada, especially into properties in the notorious ‍‍`Begum Para‍‍` area in Toronto.

"We have been informed that they used this money to buy property in Begum Para," said Professor Yunus. 

"We are asking for your help in identifying, freezing, and bringing back these stolen assets. This money belongs to our people."

Professor Yunus’s request reflects the ongoing efforts by Bangladesh‍‍`s interim government to recover these assets. In response, the Canadian High Commissioner assured Yunus that the Canadian government would assist in this process. 

He explained that Canada already has a system in place to freeze the illegally transferred funds and ensure they are returned.

“We are fully supportive of the steps you are taking to recover these assets,” said Ajit Singh. “We applaud the progress made so far, and we are here to help in any way we can.”

The Canadian High Commissioner also expressed Canada‍‍`s willingness to cooperate with Bangladesh’s reform programs aimed at strengthening democracy. 

He mentioned, “We stand with you in your reform efforts. The progress made so far is impressive, and we are eager to assist further."

Ajit Singh also revealed that Canada is keen to expand trade relations with Bangladesh and boost investment. 

A Canadian minister is expected to visit Bangladesh soon to discuss how both countries can benefit from greater cooperation.

Meanwhile, Professor Yunus reflected on his recent meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau during the United Nations General Assembly in New York. 

He said, “Dhaka is looking forward to seeing more Canadian investment.”

The Chief Advisor stressed that Bangladesh is open for business and ready to work with Canada to increase trade and investment. 

“We want Canadian companies to set up their factories in Bangladesh,” he added.

Furthermore, Professor Yunus pointed out the large number of Bangladeshis who live and study in Canada. 

He stressed that Canada should consider opening a visa office in Dhaka to better serve the needs of these people.

The meeting was attended by Lamiya Morshed, the Chief Coordinator for SDGs at the Chief Advisor’s Office, who also participated in discussions on improving bilateral ties between the two nations.

This meeting marks a crucial moment in the ongoing efforts to bring stolen wealth back to Bangladesh, and it demonstrates the growing partnership between Bangladesh and Canada. 

The issue of illegal wealth transfers and the fight for justice remain a critical matter for both countries.