Dhaka:Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Abdul Awal Mintoo emphasized the need for effective adaptation measures to address climate change challenges in Bangladesh, one of the world's most vulnerable countries. He highlighted the necessity of balancing environmental conservation with economic development.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the remarks came during a meeting with Stephen Rodrigues, Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Bangladesh, at the Secretariat. State Minister for Environment Shaikh Faridul Islam was also in attendance.
The discussion focused on enhancing cooperation in climate resilience, biodiversity conservation financing, and carbon market entry. The meeting reviewed current collaborations between Bangladesh and UNDP and explored future expansion.
Key topics included the Biodiversity Finance Initiative (BIOFIN), the National Cooling Plan (NCP), climate change adaptation, pollution control, and plastic waste management. Minister Mintoo emphasized the importance of international cooperation, climate finance, technology transfer, and capacity-building.
Faridul Islam stressed the role of local governments and communities in climate adaptation, advocating for nature-based solutions and climate-resilient initiatives in vulnerable areas. He also called for strengthened UNDP technical support for securing international climate funding.
Stephen Rodriques reiterated UNDP's commitment to supporting Bangladesh's climate goals, aligning efforts with government priorities, and enhancing resilience at the local level. Both parties agreed to accelerate joint projects and explore new cooperation areas in climate adaptation and ecosystem restoration.
Dr. Fahmida Khanam, acting secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, and senior UNDP officials were present at the meeting.