Bangkok: Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus today stated that Bangladesh is steadfast in its commitment to constructing an inclusive and climate-resilient economy, despite facing significant climate and urban challenges. “Bangladesh faces acute urban challenges, climate vulnerability, infrastructure gap and social inequality. Yet, we remain committed to building an inclusive and climate resilient economy,” he expressed in a video message during the inaugural session of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) in Bangkok.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Prof Yunus highlighted the interim government’s challenges since assuming office on August 8, 2024, following a student-led mass uprising. “We inherited a devastating economy left by the previous autocratic regime,” he noted. The interim government has initiated reforms and measures to restore financial discipline, resulting in inflation reduction to 9.3 percent in February, the lowest in two years, along with record remittances and renewed investor confidence.
Prof Yunus emphasized sustainable urban development as central to Bangladesh’s progress, reiterating the nation’s dedication to an inclusive and climate-resilient economy as it prepares for LDC graduation next year. He noted that climate change is the gravest threat to Bangladesh, severely impacting cities with rising sea levels, floods, and cyclones, and called for enhanced global cooperation and effective climate financing.
To address climate vulnerabilities, Bangladesh is investing in green and climate-resilient infrastructures, sustainable housing, and nature-based solutions. “Our low-cost housing initiatives support climate vulnerable population, while urban wetland restoration and green building materials are reducing environmental stress,” he added. Inclusive development remains a top priority, with microfinance and social business methodologies applied to urban development for equitable access to housing and economic opportunities.
Prof Yunus highlighted social business as a crucial effort, solving human and environmental issues sustainably without the intent of personal profit. “From healthcare to clean energy, clean water and housing, from communication to information technology – this model has the potential to transform lives,” he said. He called on global leaders, especially from Asia and the Pacific, to collaborate on building a sustainable world, emphasizing regional cooperation to address climate change, inequality, and urban stress.
The chief adviser also underlined the “Three Zero Vision” – zero wealth concentration, zero unemployment, and zero net carbon emissions, urging the Asia-Pacific nations to utilize youth potential and innovation for a sustainable future. The eighty-first session of ESCAP, hosted at the United Nations Conference Centre in Bangkok, themed “Regional cooperation for resilient and sustainable urban development in Asia and the Pacific,” brings together 53 member states and nine associate members.
Dr Anisuzzaman Chowdhury, the Special Assistant (State Minister Rank) to the Chief Adviser, leads the Bangladesh delegation, aiming to share experiences, deepen cooperation, and reaffirm commitment to the 2030 Agenda for sustainable development. The delegation is set to offer meaningful insights and forge valuable partnerships throughout the week-long event.