Dhaka:State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam, MP, has urged developed countries to provide advanced technological and financial support to bolster early warning systems, aiming to safeguard lives and properties from climate-related impacts.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Shama Obaed Islam made this appeal during a high-level event titled 'Early Warnings for All Delivering on Our Promise to Protect Everyone.' The event was convened by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on the sidelines of COP31 on November 11, as mentioned in a press release issued on Friday.
The event saw participation from Heads of State and Government, as well as Ministers for Environment and Disaster Management. Dr. Fahmida Khanam, Environment and Forests Secretary, accompanied the State Minister. Shama Obaed highlighted Bangladesh's significant progress since independence, noting that investments in forecasting, building shelters, evacuations, and training community volunteers—approximately 50% of whom are women—have significantly reduced casualties.
She reaffirmed the government's dedication to incorporating AI and emerging technologies to improve the efficacy of these systems. She emphasized the necessity for generous support from developed nations and stressed the importance of regional cooperation in data sharing.