Bangladesh reaffirms commitment to climate action, stronger cooperation with Maldives

Bangladesh High Commissioner to the Maldives Md Nazmul Islam has reaffirmed Bangladesh's commitment to climate action and stronger cooperation with the Maldives on climate resilience and sustainable development.

He made the remarks while participating in the "Youth Track to COP31" programme organised and facilitated by Unicef Maldives, with Ali Shareef, Minister of Climate Change, Environment and Energy of the Maldives, attending as chief guest, according to a press release issued today (6 September).

The programme brought together young people and stakeholders to promote meaningful youth participation in climate action and encourage innovative ideas for addressing the growing challenges posed by climate change.

The high commissioner appreciated the enthusiasm, creativity and commitment of the young participants and encouraged them to continue contributing to a more sustainable, resilient and environmentally responsible future.

The high commissioner emphasised that Bangladesh and the Maldives share common climate vulnerabilities and challenges, including the impacts of sea-level rise, environmental degradation and the increasing risks posed by climate change.

He noted that these shared challenges provide a strong foundation for deeper cooperation between the two countries in climate adaptation, environmental protection, resilience-building and sustainable development.

He highlighted the strong commitment of the Bangladesh government to climate action, both nationally and through regional and multilateral platforms.

As a highly climate-vulnerable country, Bangladesh has continued to pursue climate-resilient development while advocating for the interests of vulnerable developing countries in international climate negotiations.

The high commissioner stressed that Bangladesh and the Maldives can further translate their shared climate experiences into practical bilateral cooperation, particularly in areas such as climate adaptation, environmental conservation, tree plantation, coastal and marine ecosystem protection, blue economy, climate-resilient development and youth-led environmental initiatives.

He also highlighted the potential for greater trilateral and multilateral cooperation involving international organisations, development partners and other climate-vulnerable countries.

Such partnerships can facilitate the exchange of knowledge, technology, expertise and best practices and strengthen collective efforts on climate resilience, climate finance, environmental sustainability and climate justice.

The high commissioner further underscored the importance of youth engagement in climate diplomacy and climate action.

He observed that young people are not only among those most affected by the long-term consequences of climate change but are also important agents of innovation, awareness and positive change.

The Bangladesh High Commission appreciated Unicef Maldives for organising the Youth Track to COP31 programme and for creating a meaningful platform for young people to share their perspectives and contribute to the global climate agenda.

The high commissioner reaffirmed that Bangladesh attaches great importance to strengthening its climate partnership with the Maldives and expressed Bangladesh's readiness to work closely with the Government of the Maldives and relevant national, regional and international partners in advancing environmental sustainability, climate resilience and sustainable development.

The Bangladesh High Commission remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote climate action, youth participation, environmental cooperation and stronger people-to-people and institutional ties between Bangladesh and the Maldives, contributing to a more resilient and sustainable future for both countries and the wider region.