Dhaka, Feb 23 (V7N)-Bangladesh, one of the worst victims of climate change, requires genuine support instead of debt, said Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan.
Rizwana made these comments during a meeting with a high-level Swedish delegation led by Dr Jakob Granit, director-general of the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida), at the Bangladesh Secretariat on Sunday, according to a press release.
She emphasized the need for clear definitions of climate finance to prevent Bangladesh from being overburdened with loans.
Swedish Ambassador to Bangladesh Nicolas Linus Ragnar Weeks, along with senior officials from the ministry and Sida, were also present.
During the meeting, they discussed enhancing bilateral cooperation in sustainable development, climate finance, renewable energy, and water resource management.
Dr Granit reaffirmed Sweden’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s transition to a greener economy, highlighting the importance of innovation and investment in sustainable sectors, including the ready-made garment (RMG) industry.
"We have a shared interest in accelerating Bangladesh’s sustainability agenda," Dr Granit said.
He emphasized Sweden’s eagerness to collaborate with Bangladesh and European partners to promote job creation, trade, and climate-resilient investments.
Additionally, he stressed the urgent need for climate finance and support to address challenges such as water resource depletion, pollution, and rising sea levels.
The meeting also explored the RMG sector’s potential for sustainable growth, emphasizing the shared responsibility of buyers and producers in upholding fair labor practices and environmental sustainability.
Furthermore, discussions covered cooperation in plastic waste management, water resource mapping, and biodiversity conservation.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening collaboration and developing innovative financing mechanisms to support Bangladesh’s development goals.
Later, a Japanese delegation led by Matsuda Emiko, deputy director of the Climate Change Science and Adaptation Office at Japan’s Ministry of the Environment, met Rizwana at her office.
END/MSS/AJ
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