Canada keen to work for compliance in RMG sector

Canada is willing to work with Bangladesh to improve compliance in the RMG sector, said Canadian Foreign Minister John Baird yesterday.
Canada will send experts to promote building safety, fire safety and labour law compliance in the garment sector of Bangladesh, Baird said.
“Canada will work together with Bangladesh to improve compliance in the RMG sector, including through corporate social responsibility. Canada does not believe that workers in the sector should be punished through any kind of trade restrictions.”
Baird spoke in a meeting with Foreign Minister Dipu Moni on the sideline of the 20th Asean Regional Forum Ministerial Meeting in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei yesterday, the foreign ministry said in a statement.
The Canadian minister said the Canadian government would also encourage its buyers and retailers to engage with manufacturers and exporters in Bangladesh to improve social compliance in the sector to protect and promote the rights of workers.
Dipu Moni thanked the Canadian government for its pragmatic approach and briefed Baird about the steps taken by the government to further update the existing labour law to enhance occupational safety and promote the rights and well-being of workers.
Dipu Moni also requested Canada to review its current rules of origin provision so that it does not adversely affect Bangladesh's exports to Canada.
Earlier, Dipu Moni met with the US Secretary of State John Kerry on the sidelines of the Asean meeting's retreat session yesterday.