Dhaka: Nepalese Ambassador to Bangladesh Ghanshyam Bhandari today paid a courtesy call on Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo and discussed ways to further strengthen bilateral cooperation, particularly in environmental protection and climate action. During the meeting at the Minister's office in the Bangladesh Secretariat, they explored various aspects of the longstanding and friendly bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Nepal, as mentioned in a press release.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, both parties exchanged views on enhancing environmental protection, addressing climate change impacts, conserving biodiversity, and managing forests and natural resources sustainably. Regional environmental cooperation was also highlighted as a key area for collaboration.
Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo expressed deep sorrow over the recent devastating calamity in Nepal, offering heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and wishing the injured a speedy recovery. He affirmed Bangladesh's commitment to support Nepal during this difficult time, including providing humanitarian assistance as needed.
Mintoo emphasized that despite differing climate-related risks, Bangladesh and Nepal have closely interconnected environments and ecosystems. He noted that changes in Himalayan snow and glaciers, river basin ecological balances, and climate-induced disasters like excessive rainfall and floods affect the broader South Asian region.
Ahead of the upcoming COP31 conference, Mintoo underscored the importance of regional cooperation, knowledge exchange, and joint initiatives to address shared environmental challenges. Ambassador Bhandari echoed this sentiment, expressing interest in expanding cooperation on environmental protection and climate action.
Bhandari highlighted opportunities for institutional collaborations between the two nations, focusing on exchanging technical knowledge and building capacity for environment-friendly development initiatives. He expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister of Bangladesh for the solidarity and support extended to Nepal following the accident, reflecting the deep friendship and mutual trust between the two countries.
The meeting also addressed growing collaborations in trade, connectivity, tourism, education, and renewable energy. Both sides recognized that stronger regional connectivity and economic partnerships could create new opportunities for the peoples of both countries and emphasized the role of clean and renewable energy in achieving green and sustainable development in South Asia.
Dr Fahmida Khanam, Acting Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, was present at the meeting.