Dhaka, Aug 20 (V7N) - Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan has announced that the Asian Development Bank (ADB) will extend substantial support to Bangladesh for low-cost river cleaning initiatives, specifically targeting the Buriganga, Turag, and Balu rivers.

In addition to river cleaning, the ADB's assistance will also focus on the implementation of Bangladesh's action-oriented climate strategies, including the National Adaptation Plan (NAP). The announcement was made during a meeting with Edimon Ginting, ADB's country director, held at the Bangladesh Secretariat on Tuesday.

Rizwana Hasan highlighted the vital role of the private sector and youth in environmental conservation and emphasized the importance of capacity building. She also requested ADB's support in establishing a training institute for officials from the Department of Environment (DoE).

Expressing appreciation for ADB's ongoing assistance, Rizwana Hasan stressed the need for innovative solutions and financing mechanisms to effectively tackle environmental challenges and enhance Bangladesh’s climate resilience.

In response, Edimon Ginting reaffirmed ADB's commitment to supporting Bangladesh's environmental and climate goals. He announced that ADB will utilize AI technology in the river cleaning projects and outlined plans to expand their efforts in the country.

Ginting also invited Rizwana Hasan to speak at the High-level Session of the Climate Adaptation Investment Planning Forum (CAIP2024), scheduled for September 17-18, 2024, at ADB Headquarters in Manila, Philippines.

The meeting, which included Environment Secretary Dr. Farhina Ahmed and senior officials from both the ministry and ADB, concluded with a renewed commitment to collaboration in advancing environmental sustainability and climate resilience in Bangladesh.

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