Environment and Forest Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo recently highlighted Bangladesh’s plan to push for stronger international cooperation and climate financing during COP31. He spoke at an international conference in Türkiye focused on creating resilient cities in light of climate change.
This two-day event gathered environment ministers, policymakers, and international partners at the Museum Hotel in Hatay. Mintoo met with Türkiye’s Minister of Environment, Urbanisation, and Climate Change, Murat Kurum, who invited Bangladesh to actively participate in COP31. Kurum emphasized the importance of Bangladesh’s input on the upcoming “Hatay Declaration.”
Mintoo expressed gratitude for Türkiye’s warm hospitality, noting the friendship between the two nations and the presence of many Bangladeshis living in Türkiye. He pointed out that although Bangladesh contributes just 0.35% of global carbon emissions, it faces significant risks from climate change due to deforestation, urbanization, and rising sea levels.
Despite its challenges, Bangladesh has struggled to secure adequate global financial support for climate issues. Mintoo stressed the need for developed countries to take greater responsibility. He plans to appoint focal persons before COP31 to advocate for Bangladesh’s climate needs.
During a panel discussion, Mintoo underscored how essential financing is for building climate-resilient infrastructure. He pointed out that while least developed countries emit relatively little greenhouse gas, they bear the brunt of climate impacts. He called for quicker disbursement of climate funds and better technical support for vulnerable nations.
In parallel discussions, Bangladesh and the Maldives explored cooperation in climate action and energy. The Maldives proposed a plan to plant five million trees, seeking assistance in nursery development and sapling production. Mintoo shared Bangladesh’s ambitious goal to plant 250 million trees over the next five years.
Additionally, Kosovo’s environment minister visited Mintoo to discuss collaboration in the COP process, expressing interest in a potential memorandum of understanding on environmental cooperation.
The conference wrapped up with the Hatay Declaration, focusing on climate risk mitigation and sustainable urban development. As global temperatures continue to rise, such international efforts become increasingly critical, and Bangladesh’s proactive stance highlights its commitment to tackling these pressing challenges.
For more about climate financing trends and the impact of international cooperation, you can check reports from the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.
