Bangladesh, Nepal agree to strengthen climate and environment cooperation

Bangladesh and Nepal have emphasised strengthening cooperation in addressing environmental and climate change challenges. Discussions also covered tackling regional environmental challenges, exchanging experiences and working jointly on sustainable development.

Nepal's Ambassador to Bangladesh Ghanshyam Bhandari paid a courtesy call on Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo at the Bangladesh Secretariat on Sunday, September 6. The meeting discussed various aspects of bilateral relations and cooperation.

The environment minister expressed deep condolences over the recent loss of lives in Nepal's disaster. He said the government and people of Bangladesh stand by Nepal during this difficult time and assured continued humanitarian assistance as needed. The ambassador conveyed gratitude from Nepal's government and people for Bangladesh's expression of sympathy.

Discussing the impacts of climate change, Abdul Awal Mintoo said though Bangladesh and Nepal face different types of climate risks, the environmental and ecological systems of the two countries are closely interconnected. Changes in Himalayan snow and glaciers, imbalances in river basins, excessive rainfall and floods do not remain confined to one country but impact the environment and livelihoods across South Asia.

Ahead of the upcoming COP-31 conference, the minister emphasised the need for coordinated initiatives among South Asian countries to address common environmental risks. He stressed the importance of exchanging mutual knowledge and experience and adopting joint programmes.

Ambassador Ghanshyam Bhandari highlighted the existing friendly relations between Bangladesh and Nepal and expressed interest in expanding cooperation in environment and climate change. He noted opportunities for technical knowledge exchange between relevant institutions of the two countries, enhancing skills and working jointly on environmentally friendly development programmes.

The meeting also discussed trade, regional connectivity, tourism, education and renewable energy. Both sides believed that strengthening communication systems and economic partnership would open new opportunities for the people of both countries.

Both sides also emphasised increasing cooperation in clean and renewable energy. They noted that such initiatives could play a positive role in ensuring environmentally friendly and sustainable development in South Asia while also tackling climate change risks.

Environment, Forest and Climate Change Ministry's Acting Secretary Dr Fahmida Khanam was present at the meeting.