Antalya:Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has outlined five urgent actions to address the needs of climate-vulnerable countries, emphasizing the necessity of allocating at least 50 percent of international climate finance to adaptation efforts and the introduction of debt-relief measures.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the Prime Minister made these remarks during the High-Level Segment of the 31st UN Climate Change Conference (COP31) in Antalya, Turkey. He stressed that climate-vulnerable countries require grants rather than loans that could exacerbate their debt burdens.
Tarique Rahman highlighted the inadequacy of the global climate finance system in addressing the specific needs and priorities of developing countries. He proposed five measures for the international community, including the allocation of at least 50 percent of climate finance to adaptation and the introduction of debt-relief measures such as Debt-for-Climate Swaps and Climate-Resilient Debt Clauses.
The Prime Minister also called for fair access to climate-friendly technologies, the acceleration of the transition to renewable energy, and the adoption of the Belem-Antalya Action Mechanism for a just transition at COP31. He noted the significant impact of climate-related losses and damages on economies and emphasized Bangladesh's commitment to building a climate-resilient and sustainable economy.
Tarique Rahman mentioned Bangladesh's plans to meet 20 percent of its electricity needs from renewable sources by 2030 and the development of 4,000 megawatts of solar power. He also highlighted initiatives in waste-to-energy, green industries, electric vehicles, and eco-friendly products, as well as plans to plant 250 million trees and restore mangroves.
The Prime Minister concluded by expressing hope for meaningful outcomes at COP31, particularly for the countries most vulnerable to climate change.