PM bats for delta nations at WEF

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has called on the World Economic Forum (WEF) to take coordinated action in support of delta nations such as Bangladesh and other countries facing severe risks from climate change and rising sea levels.

He made the appeal during a courtesy meeting with WEF President and Chief Executive Officer Alois Zwinggi at the Dalian International Conference Centre on Tuesday, on the sidelines of the organisation’s annual meeting.

At the outset of the meeting, Zwinggi congratulated Tarique Rahman on assuming office as Prime Minister of Bangladesh.

During the discussions, the Prime Minister highlighted Bangladesh’s ongoing efforts to address the impacts of climate change and strengthen environmental sustainability.

He commended the WEF for its initiatives aimed at tackling climate-related challenges at the global level.

Tarique Rahman said the government has launched an ambitious programme to plant 250 million trees over the next five years as part of its environmental conservation strategy.

He also outlined efforts to improve water management and reduce flood risks through the re-excavation of nearly 20,000 kilometres of rivers and canals across the country.

According to the Prime Minister, these initiatives are intended to restore natural water flow, enhance climate resilience and protect ecosystems.

Emphasising Bangladesh’s commitment to renewable energy, he said the government has introduced tax incentives to encourage solar power generation and adopted a target of meeting 20 per cent of the country’s electricity demand from renewable sources by 2030.

Zwinggi expressed interest in Bangladesh’s climate resilience initiatives and said the country’s experiences and policy measures could contribute to global discussions on climate adaptation and sustainable development.

He noted that Bangladesh’s efforts in climate resilience and sustainability are likely to attract the attention of international investors and financing institutions.

Assuring continued support, the WEF chief said the organisation would give serious consideration to the issues raised by Bangladesh and remain engaged in supporting relevant initiatives.

Zwinggi also invited the Prime Minister to participate in the WEF Annual Meeting in Davos, Switzerland.

Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman, Foreign Affairs Adviser Humayun Kabir, Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) Executive Chairman Ashik Chowdhury, and Additional Press Secretary to the Prime Minister Atikur Rahman Ruman were present at the meeting.