Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo has emphasized the importance of enhanced technical support, knowledge exchange, and investment cooperation from UNESCO to strengthen Bangladesh’s efforts in forest conservation, environmental protection, and climate change adaptation.
The minister made the remarks during a meeting with UNESCO Representative to Bangladesh Dr. Susan Vize at his office in the Secretariat in Dhaka.
During the meeting, the minister highlighted key priorities, including modernization of waste management systems, control of air and water pollution, implementation of the government’s plan to plant 250 million trees over five years, strengthening conservation of the Sundarbans, and enhancing resilience against salinity intrusion in coastal areas. He also stressed the need to expand training and investment in these sectors.
State Minister Sheikh Faridul Islam was also present at the meeting.
Dr. Vize expressed UNESCO’s interest in further strengthening cooperation in areas such as climate resilience, green campus initiatives, biodiversity conservation, and environmental education.
She also discussed potential collaboration under UNESCO programs including the “Man and the Biosphere (MAB)” and the “Climate Smart Education System Initiative (CSESI),” highlighting opportunities for future partnership.
Reaffirming UNESCO’s commitment, she emphasized the importance of deepening bilateral cooperation, expanding joint initiatives, and working closely to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The meeting was attended by Environment Secretary Md Rayhan Kawsar and senior officials from UNESCO Bangladesh.
