BD showcases climate innovation at UN SDG forum

Bangladesh has highlighted climate resilience, water security, innovation-led industrialisation and skills development as key priorities for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at the UN High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development in New York.

Prof Dr S M Abdul-Awal, Principal Coordinator (SDG Affairs) at the Prime Minister’s Office, presented Bangladesh’s position at the forum held at the United Nations Headquarters on Friday, according to a message received on Saturday.

Addressing the forum, Dr Awal reaffirmed Bangladesh’s long-term commitment to climate adaptation and sustainable water management, outlining the government’s plan to excavate 20,000 kilometres of canals over the next five years.

He said the initiative is aimed at strengthening irrigation systems, improving rainwater retention, raising groundwater levels and ensuring greater drinking water security for both rural and urban communities.

The SDG Affairs coordinator also emphasised the need for stronger international cooperation on transboundary water management, including support for implementing the Teesta Barrage Project in northern Bangladesh.

Speaking in a separate session on Sustainable Development Goal 9, Dr Awal said resilient infrastructure, sustainable industrialisation and innovation remain at the heart of Bangladesh’s development strategy as the country prepares for graduation from the least developed country (LDC) category.

He stressed the importance of expanding investment in skilled and knowledge-based education, technical and vocational education and training (TVET), science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), digital infrastructure and entrepreneurship to equip young people with skills for future employment and help build a knowledge-based economy.

Dr Awal also invited the international community to increase investment in Bangladesh’s agriculture, biotechnology, pharmaceutical, leather, digital and creative industries.

He said Bangladesh now offers a favourable environment for foreign investment following the restoration of democratic governance through a proper election.

According to Dr Awal, greater international investment would help safeguard the country’s development gains, create new employment opportunities and support a more resilient, inclusive and sustainable future.