Antalya:Bangladesh has called on Eswatini to increase its imports of sustainable and affordable garment products from Bangladesh, emphasizing the nation's commitment to environmentally responsible manufacturing practices.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam made this appeal during a bilateral meeting with Eswatini Prime Minister Russell Dlamini at the Bangladesh Pavilion in the Blue Zone of COP31 in Antalya, Türkiye. The meeting focused on expanding bilateral trade, investment, climate cooperation, and strengthening people-to-people ties.
The state minister highlighted Bangladesh's initiatives in promoting sustainability and circular practices within the readymade garment industry. She emphasized the affordability and environmental responsibility of Bangladeshi apparel for international markets. Additionally, she proposed jute, Bangladesh's golden fibre, as a renewable and biodegradable alternative to plastic products, commending Eswatini's ban on single-use plastic bags. Shama Obaed invited the Eswatini prime minister to visit Bangladesh's jute pavilion in the COP31 Green Zone to explore the potential of jute products.
During the meeting, Bangladesh's climate priorities were discussed, which include limiting global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius and increasing the share of renewable energy in the nation's electricity generation. Bangladesh aims for 20 percent renewable energy by 2030 and 30 percent by 2040. Prime Minister Dlamini acknowledged Bangladesh's contributions to international climate negotiations, noting shared priorities in tackling climate challenges.
Both parties discussed strengthening cooperation between COP31 in Antalya and the upcoming COP32 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Healthcare cooperation was also a significant topic, with Dlamini addressing Eswatini's healthcare needs and Bangladesh offering support through its pharmaceutical exports.
The longstanding friendly relations between the two nations as Commonwealth members and partners in the Global South were reaffirmed, with a mutual agreement to enhance cooperation in trade, investment, and multilateral forums. Shama Obaed also sought Eswatini's continued support for the early repatriation of Rohingyas to Myanmar.
Eswatini's Minister of Tourism and Environmental Affairs Jane Mkhonta-Simelane and Special Assistant to the Bangladesh Prime Minister Dr Saimum Parvez were present at the meeting. The discussion concluded with the state minister presenting Dlamini with a jacket made from Bangladeshi jute fabric, a gesture appreciated by the Eswatini prime minister.