Staff Reporter: Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Saber Hossain Chowdhury said as Bangladesh is badly in need of resources to combat climate change, Asian Development  Bank will increase cooperation in Bangladesh for Climate Actions. With a staggering requirement of 9 billion dollars for climate action, the minister highlighted the government's allocation of 3.5 billion dollars, earmarked for infrastructure development, disaster management, and education. He said government wants Bangladeshi projects assisted by international development partners. 

Environment Minister said this in a pivotal meeting with a delegation led by Asian Development Bank Vice President Fatima Yasmin at his office in the Bangladesh Secretariat. Edimon Ginting, the Country Director of ADB in Bangladesh, also attended this significant meeting on Sunday, March 31, 2024.

Acknowledging the reluctance of the private sector to invest in adaptation efforts, Minister Chowdhury stressed the importance of monetizing adaptation and prioritizing locally led initiatives. Additionally, he underscored the significance of addressing transboundary air pollution, which accounts for 30 percent of air pollution in Bangladesh. He said Bangladesh affirmed its dedication to conducting research for the betterment of the global community.

In response, Asian Development Bank Vice President Fatima Yasmin expressed ADB's unwavering commitment to supporting Bangladesh in implementing crucial initiatives such as the Delta Plan, Mujib Climate Prosperity Plan, and National Adaptation Plan. Vice President Yasmin reaffirmed ADB's strong partnership with Bangladesh and its dedication to undertaking transformational projects with a heightened focus on climate change resilience. Out of the total allocation of 9.8 billion USD, ADB has pledged 2 billion USD specifically for Bangladesh, signifying its profound commitment to the nation's sustainable development goals.

This meeting marks a significant milestone in the ongoing collaboration between Bangladesh and the Asian Development Bank, highlighting the shared commitment to addressing climate change and fostering sustainable development.

Biniyougbarta/SAM//