Antalya:Dhaka Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is set to depart for Türkiye tomorrow to participate in the COP31 World Leaders' Summit. He will address a plenary session and conduct bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the event.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the summit will be held in Antalya on November 11-12, with the Prime Minister scheduled to deliver Bangladesh's statement at the plenary session on November 12. The Conference of the Parties (COP) is the annual United Nations climate summit where global leaders discuss collective actions to address climate change.
Prime Minister Rahman will lead the Bangladesh delegation from November 10 to 12, accompanied by his spouse Dr. Zubaida Rahman, the Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, two state ministers for foreign affairs, and a team of relevant government officials and media. Newly appointed Foreign Secretary Salahuddin Noman Chowdhury briefed reporters on the visit preparations, stating that arrangements for the Prime Minister's engagements are still being finalized. Expected meetings include discussions with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the Australian Prime Minister, the President of Uzbekistan, and the British Foreign Secretary, as well as possibly with the UNDP Administrator.
These meetings aim to strengthen bilateral relations, expand trade and investment, and enhance cooperation in addressing climate change. Chowdhury expressed optimism that these engagements would advance Bangladesh's economic and geopolitical interests. He also noted that while a courtesy meeting with the Turkish President might occur, it is unlikely to settle specific project arrangements.
Chowdhury addressed questions regarding compensation for climate-related losses, noting that Bangladesh highlights its climate-related damages in international forums to raise awareness and secure cooperation. The Prime Minister's plenary address is expected to focus on climate justice, developed countries' historical responsibilities, and the need for climate finance and adaptation.
Bangladesh aims to showcase its climate resilience achievements and share experiences at the summit. An initiative to establish a jute pavilion in the conference's Green Zone will highlight jute's environmentally friendly qualities and potential as a plastic alternative. A joint declaration with Türkiye on promoting jute is also anticipated.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has coordinated with other ministries for Bangladesh's participation, emphasizing the nation's climate diplomacy and resilience efforts. Additional Foreign Secretary A K M Shahidul Karim and senior officials were present at the briefing.