BanglaPress Desk: Prime Minister Tareque Rahman has stated that the Government of Bangladesh is committed to building a one-trillion-dollar climate-resilient and sustainable economy. Inspired by the philosophy of "Bangladesh First," the government views economic growth and environmental protection as complementary to each other. Nature conservation and ecological balance must be maintained alongside industrialization and development activities.
The Prime Minister made these remarks today, Thursday, while addressing a high-level session at the UN Climate Change Conference (COP-31) in Antalya, Turkey.
The Prime Minister said, "Bangladesh is among the nations on the front lines of climate change, yet its contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions is less than 0.5 percent. Despite this challenge, the government is working to build a climate-resilient and sustainable economy."
He added, "The democratically elected government has set a target to meet 20 percent of the country's electricity demand through renewable energy by 2030. In line with the Paris Agreement, initiatives have been launched to generate 4,000 megawatts of solar power through special tax incentives, aiming toward net-zero emissions. Furthermore, the production of energy from waste is also being encouraged."
Noting that the government is promoting green industrialization, Prime Minister Tareque Rahman stated, "There are currently nearly 300 LEED-certified ready-made garment factories in the country. Additionally, efforts are underway to expand eco-friendly transport systems—including electric vehicles—promote environmentally friendly products like jute-based bags, and establish a national framework for carbon trading."
He further mentioned, "The government has planned to plant 250 million trees over the next five years. To enhance environmental conservation and climate resilience, master plans for the Padma and Teesta barrages are being implemented, alongside the dredging of 20,000 kilometers of rivers and canals." "Through this, initiatives have been taken to conserve water, reduce flood risks, restore wetlands, and raise groundwater levels."
Highlighting the initiative to restore mangrove forests on reclaimed coastal land, the Prime Minister stated, "This will help protect coastal communities and strengthen climate resilience."
Pointing out the limitations of the global climate finance architecture, the Prime Minister remarked, "The existing financial system remains inadequate and fails to properly account for the needs and priorities of developing nations. Climate-induced loss and damage impose a heavy burden on their economies. Furthermore, mounting debt-servicing obligations and limited financial resources are exacerbating an already difficult situation."
She emphasized, "Climate-vulnerable nations require grants, not further debt. It is essential to ensure reliable financial support, access to modern technology, and robust cooperation for climate adaptation efforts."
Citing the principle of "common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities," the Prime Minister called for five urgent measures to address climate change, stating, "At least 50 percent of international climate finance must be allocated to adaptation efforts, while simultaneously supporting initiatives to reduce emissions."
She urged the implementation of emergency credit and relief facilities for climate-vulnerable countries, the assurance of fair access to and transfer of eco-friendly technologies, and the acceleration of the transition to renewable energy through affordable financing and capacity building.
Additionally, she proposed the adoption of the "Belem-Antalya Action Mechanism" at the COP-31 conference to facilitate a just energy transition, grounded in equitable financing and trade. Emphasizing the importance of ensuring the participation of women and youth in climate action, the Prime Minister stated, "We must work towards limiting the rise in global temperature to 1.5 degrees Celsius by creating decent green jobs and reducing global greenhouse gas emissions."
Expressing her anticipation for a successful COP-31 summit, the Prime Minister said, "Bangladesh hopes that this conference will yield meaningful, balanced, and ambitious outcomes—especially for the nations most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change."
Addressing other world leaders, she urged, "Let us translate our commitments into reality, strengthen global solidarity, and build a sustainable future together."
