Dhaka, 2 June 2026: Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo held a courtesy meeting with Michael Miller, Ambassador of the European Union to Bangladesh, at the Bangladesh Secretariat on Tuesday. The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation between Bangladesh and the European Union in addressing climate change, advancing the green energy transition, and promoting environmental sustainability.
The two sides exchanged views on a wide range of issues, including the Green Climate Fund (GCF), climate finance, expansion of renewable energy, carbon credit mechanisms, the circular economy, green energy transition initiatives, and preparations for the upcoming COP31.
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During the meeting, the Environment Minister highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to address the impacts of climate change through large-scale tree plantation programs, development of carbon credit systems, increased use of renewable energy, enhancement of climate adaptation capacity, promotion of environmentally friendly construction blocks as alternatives to conventional bricks, and wildlife conservation initiatives.
He noted that the government is implementing various programs to expand solar power generation across the country as part of its broader commitment to sustainable energy development.
The minister also emphasized the government’s commitment to improving environmental management in the industrial sector, including strengthening the effectiveness of Effluent Treatment Plants (ETPs) in the Savar tannery estate and other industrial facilities.
Referring to global climate challenges, he pointed out that least developed and developing countries contribute relatively little to global greenhouse gas emissions but remain among the most vulnerable to the adverse impacts of climate change. He stressed the need for accessible, timely, and concessional climate financing to support climate resilience, adaptation efforts, and environmental protection in vulnerable countries.
EU Ambassador Michael Miller praised Bangladesh’s initiatives in environmental protection and climate action. He expressed the European Union’s interest in expanding cooperation with Bangladesh on green energy transition and climate adaptation programs.
The ambassador also underscored the importance of improving access to climate finance, advancing policy reforms, and enhancing institutional capacity for the implementation of innovative climate-related projects. He expressed optimism that cooperation and coordinated initiatives between Bangladesh and the European Union would continue to grow across areas of mutual interest.
Senior officials attending the meeting included the Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, the Additional Secretary (Climate Change), and senior representatives of the European Union Delegation in Bangladesh.
The discussion reaffirmed the shared commitment of Bangladesh and the European Union to strengthening climate resilience, promoting sustainable development, and accelerating the transition toward a greener and more climate-resilient future.
