Dhaka: Environment, Forest and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan has reaffirmed Bangladesh's readiness to lead in sustainable development and trade-driven green growth. She expressed interest in exploring comprehensive economic partnership agreements with developed countries and underscored the need for inclusive negotiations with major trade partners to avoid imbalances that harm exporters and consumers alike. Rizwana made these observations during a meeting with Ratnakar Adhikari, Executive Director of the Enhanced Integrated Framework at the World Trade Organization (WTO) at Pani Bhaban here today.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, they discussed a broad range of topics, including enhancing Bangladesh's trade resilience in the face of global economic uncertainty, expanding regional cooperation, and attracting investment in green industrial infrastructure. Rizwana emphasized that to ensure long-term economic stability, Bangladesh must achieve strategic autonomy by developing alternative logistics and export routes. She stated, "Our economic sovereignty is vital for national survival."
Adhikari discussed global trade dynamics impacting Bangladesh's key export sectors, particularly ready-made garments. He stressed the need for fast-tracking the development of export-oriented industrial facilities and emphasized diversifying trade partnerships and responding to shifting regional trade policies. Highlighting the link between trade and climate action, Adhikari spoke about Bangladesh's potential to access international climate finance through better coordination between trade and environmental policies.
He shared examples from EIF-supported countries like The Gambia, where coordinated efforts led to the formulation of green recovery plans and major investment proposals for sustainable industrial development. The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to advancing sustainable trade practices, strengthening regional ties, and pursuing innovative solutions for green industrial transformation.