Dhaka: Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is set to make his first address at the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), with a major focus on climate change, as announced by State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Bangladesh will leverage significant international platforms, including the upcoming UN Climate Change Conference COP31 in November, to advocate for climate justice and underscore the environmental advantages of jute products. Shama made these statements during a discussion titled "Pursuing Climate Justice Through Climate Diplomacy" held at the CIRDAP auditorium in the capital.
In a pioneering move, the government has established a dedicated climate change wing within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to bolster Bangladesh's climate diplomacy and enhance its global engagement on the issue. "We are working with the Ministry of Environment on climate change issues," stated Shama, highlighting the collaborative approach.
The state minister emphasized that the prime minister's speech at the UNGA would demonstrate the government's dedication to combating climate change and articulate Bangladesh's stance and priorities to the international community. Prime Minister Rahman is scheduled to depart for New York on September 21 for the 81st session of the UN General Assembly, where he will stay until September 26 and deliver his address on September 24.
Additionally, the prime minister plans to participate in COP31 in November, further showcasing Bangladesh's commitment to international climate action. Shama highlighted the disproportionate impact of climate change on women and children, advocating for their vulnerabilities and protection needs to be prioritized in global climate discussions.
The state minister also underscored the potential of Bangladesh's traditional, eco-friendly jute products in reducing reliance on plastic and other polluting materials. She referenced the government's tree-planting and canal-digging programs as initiatives contributing to climate change mitigation and environmental resilience.
The discussion explored how Bangladesh can more effectively pursue climate justice through climate diplomacy at the United Nations and other global forums. The event was organized by Brighters, CPRD, and Waterkeepers Bangladesh, with several other organizations co-organizing, as part of broader engagements related to the 81st session of the UN General Assembly.