Antalya:Dhaka Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has urged for grant-based financing rather than loans to assist climate-vulnerable countries in addressing the adverse effects of climate change. This call was made during his address at the High-Level Segment of COP31, as reported by BNP Acting Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi today.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Rizvi, who is also the Political Adviser to the Prime Minister, emphasized the need for grants to alleviate the debt burden on countries affected by climate change. He shared these remarks at a press briefing at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport following the Prime Minister's return from the 31st UN Climate Change Conference held in Antalya, Turkiye.
During his speech, the Prime Minister presented Bangladesh's requirements and proposed five measures to mitigate global warming risks. These include climate finance, debt reduction, grants, renewable energy financing, and access to modern technology. He also highlighted the importance of international cooperation to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, a topic he discussed with the Australian Prime Minister.
Rizvi highlighted the Prime Minister's initiative to plant 250 million trees over the next five years, with 30 to 40 million already planted through collaborative efforts of various organizations. He noted that the rising global temperatures and resulting fatalities underscore the urgency for global initiatives and cooperation.
The Prime Minister's proposals at the conference are seen as pivotal in enhancing climate adaptation efforts. Rizvi described the visit as fruitful, emphasizing that it spotlighted Bangladesh's climate challenges and fostered international cooperation.
During his three-day visit to Antalya, the Prime Minister participated in the Antalya Leaders' Summit and held bilateral meetings with several global leaders, including Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. He also engaged with representatives from various international organizations to bolster cooperation on climate issues.