Dhaka:Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo emphasized the need for turning national climate policies into coordinated programs, quality projects, and appropriate financing to achieve measurable results. He was speaking at the opening ceremony of the Bangladesh Climate Development Partnership Knowledge Conference 2026 at the Pan Pacific Sonargaon Hotel.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Mintoo launched the BCDP Web Portal, which aims to enhance transparency and improve processes for developing climate finance pipelines through real-time project monitoring. He stressed that adaptation investments can deliver public benefits and called for private investment in clean energy and sustainable infrastructure.
Minister Mintoo highlighted the importance of community involvement in project planning, particularly for women, young people, persons with disabilities, and marginalized communities. He reiterated Bangladesh's call for international support and climate justice while addressing adaptation and climate-related loss and damage.
State Minister Sheikh Faridul Islam focused on the challenges of increasing coastal salinity and declining crop production due to climate change, advocating for nature-based solutions, canal excavation, and tree-planting programs. He also noted the government's efforts to expand electric bus use and solar power as part of low-carbon development.
Dr. Md Saimum Parvez, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister, shared Bangladesh's experience in climate adaptation, urging the translation of conference discussions into actionable commitments and partnerships. ADB Executive Director Satya Srinivas Lolla emphasized the need for substantial investment from both public and private sectors for implementing national climate plans.
The conference, chaired by Dr. Fahmida Khanam, Acting Secretary of the Ministry, saw participation from over 500 stakeholders, including policymakers and experts. Discussions on the first day centered on climate resilience and low-carbon growth, with sessions on energy transition and climate-resilient agriculture planned for the following day.