Bangladesh seeks to expand diversified energy cooperation with Canada’s Saskatchewan province

Bangladesh has shown strong interest in diversifying its energy sources through cooperation with Canada’s Saskatchewan province, with a focus on conventional energy, clean technologies, and emerging areas such as small modular reactors (SMRs).

Bangladesh High Commissioner to Canada Md Jashim Uddin made the remarks during a series of high-level meetings in the province as part of his official visit, according to a message received here today.

During a meeting with Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe, the envoy proposed establishing a Bangladesh–Saskatchewan cooperation framework to guide engagement in key sectors, including energy, agriculture, agri-food value chains, and research collaboration.

The Premier welcomed the proposal and expressed interest in advancing both short- and long-term cooperation under the framework. Provincial Minister of Trade and Export Development Warren Kaeding was also present at the meeting.

Energy cooperation featured prominently in the discussions, with Bangladesh stressing the need to diversify its energy mix through partnerships in conventional energy, clean technologies, and emerging sectors such as SMRs.

The High Commissioner reiterated the proposal in separate meetings with Saskatchewan’s Minister of Energy and Resources Chris Beaudry and Minister of Agriculture David Marit. Both sides highlighted opportunities for technical cooperation, research collaboration, and knowledge transfer.

Talks also underscored the growing trade relationship between Bangladesh and Saskatchewan, particularly in agri-food products and potash fertiliser, which are vital to Bangladesh’s food security.

Both sides emphasised expanding collaboration into value-added sectors, including agri-processing, agricultural technology, and downstream industries such as canola-based edible oil production.

During the visit, the envoy was received by Lieutenant Governor Bernadette McIntyre at Government House in Regina and was introduced in the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan during its session.

He also met Dr Jeff Keshen, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Regina, along with faculty members and Bangladeshi students, highlighting opportunities for academic collaboration, skills development, and the role of the diaspora in strengthening bilateral ties.

The High Commissioner also held meetings with key institutions, including the Saskatchewan Trade and Export Partnership (STEP), SaskPower, and the Petroleum Technology Research Centre (PTRC), focusing on expanding trade, investment, and sector-specific cooperation.