Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Adviser to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, emphasized that climate finance, adaptation, and mitigation strategies must be fair and prioritize the most vulnerable populations.
She stated that the promise of providing $100 billion to address the international funding crisis should be increased. While contributions from developed countries may resolve some financial issues, true climate justice will still remain elusive.
Environment Adviser made these remarks during a seminar titled "Road to Baku: COP29 - Position of CSOs in Bangladesh on Climate Change," held on Sunday at the Department of Environment in Dhaka.
Syeda Rizwana reiterated that Bangladesh will maintain a firm stance on limiting global temperature rise to within 1.5 degrees Celsius.
She stressed the need for enhanced focus on adaptation measures and called for the involvement of young people in the process.
The adviser also underscored the importance of clearly articulating international challenges and advocating for ambitious mitigation efforts. As Bangladesh prepares for COP29 in Baku, she emphasized the critical role of civil society in shaping the country's climate policies.
Dr. Abdul Hamid, Director General, Department of Environment; Dr. SM Munjurul Hannan Khan, Executive Director, NACOM; and Farah Kabir, Country Drictor, ActionAid Bangladesh also spoke in the occasion.
The seminar gathered representatives from civil society organizations (CSOs), climate activists, and policy experts, aiming to establish a unified position for Bangladesh ahead of the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) in Baku of Azerbaijan. Discussions centered on Bangladesh’s adaptation strategies, climate financing, and the essential role of local communities in building climate resilience.
The event concluded with a call for stronger advocacy at COP29 to ensure that the voices of vulnerable countries like Bangladesh are heard in global climate negotiations. Attendees expressed optimism that Bangladesh will continue to lead by example in addressing climate change and fostering resilience.
Bd-pratidin English/Lutful Hoque