Bangladesh to champion climate justice, jute at COP31

State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam outlined the prioritieswhile chairing a meeting with climate experts and stakeholders at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs here today, said a ministry press release.

The meeting reviewed Bangladesh's preparations, negotiating priorities and proposed action agenda for the 31st Conference of the Parties (COP31) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

Shama described COP31 as an important global platform for advancing climate diplomacy, particularly in adaptation, mitigation and resilience-building.

She underscored the importance of climate justice, accountability, effective implementation of the Loss and Damage Fund, a just transition and green economic growth for climate-vulnerable countries such as Bangladesh.

The state minister called for the implementation of the National Action Plan and predictable, adequate and transparent disbursement of internationalclimate finance commitments in line with Bangladesh's national priorities.

She also emphasised integrating circular economy principles with green industrial development to promote environmentally sustainable economic growth.

Highlighting Bangladesh's potential in sustainable industries, Shama said the country would showcase jute as a biodegradable and environmentally friendly natural fibre with significant commercial prospects in international markets.

The initiative aims to promote jute-based products and technologies as viable alternatives to plastic while demonstrating Bangladesh's contribution to sustainable production and green growth.

The state minister urged climate experts, researchers and other stakeholders to contribute their expertise and recommendations towards developing a strong and coordinated national position ahead of COP31.

During the meeting, participants discussed the conference's major negotiating issues and proposed measures to strengthen Bangladesh's participation in global climate negotiations.

Climate experts stressed the need for comprehensive and long-term strategies that would deliver tangible outcomes beyond the annual climate conference.

They also recommended highlighting the government's flagship climate initiatives and achievements to attract greater international attention, cooperation and investment.

Youth representatives, who are expected to participate in the conference for the first time, shared their expectations and proposals for strengthening Bangladesh's climate diplomacy.

The participants welcomed the foreign ministry's initiative to engage a broad range of stakeholders in shaping the country's priorities for COP31.

Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Environment, Forest and Climate Change Saimum Parvez, prominent climate experts, representatives of research institutions, national and international organisations and senior foreign ministry officials attended the meeting.

Bangladesh is expected to participate in the high-level segments, negotiations and thematic discussions at COP31, scheduled for November 9-20 in Antalya, Trkiye.

The country also plans to present its climate priorities, achievements and sustainable development initiatives, with particular emphasis on the environmental and commercial potential of jute, reports BSS.