Antalya:Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has urged Australia to expand its investment in Bangladesh and assist in the safe repatriation of Rohingyas to Myanmar. This appeal was made during a bilateral meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on the sidelines of the 31st UN Climate Change Conference (COP31).
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the meeting, which occurred at 1030 am local time, covered various topics of mutual interest. These included the impacts of climate change, enhancing Australian investment in Bangladesh, and the Rohingya repatriation issue.
Prime Minister Rahman emphasized the importance of prioritizing support for developing and vulnerable countries in addressing climate change challenges. He commended Australia for its leadership role in the COP31 negotiations and highlighted Bangladesh's favorable conditions for foreign investment, particularly in the agriculture sector.
Regarding the Rohingya crisis, Rahman sought Australia's diplomatic backing to ensure the safe return of Rohingyas from Bangladesh to Myanmar, stressing that the crisis originated in Myanmar and its resolution also lies there. Additionally, he presented Bangladesh's renewable energy plans, aiming to meet 20 percent of its electricity demand from renewable sources by 2030.
The discussions also included environmental protection initiatives such as planting 250 million trees and digging canals. Both leaders extended invitations to visit each other's countries, with Albanese expressing hope to visit Bangladesh next year, and Rahman planning a visit to Australia at a convenient time.
During his three-day official visit to Antalya, Rahman addressed the High-Level Segment of COP31, advocating for urgent actions to protect climate-vulnerable countries. He also held bilateral meetings with leaders from Turkey, China, Uzbekistan, and courtesy calls with other global leaders to strengthen ties and tackle climate change impacts.