Dhaka, Sep 29 (V7N): The World Bank has committed $300 million in support of the Bangladesh Clean Air Project (BCAP), according to a press release from Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan. This project aims to enhance air quality management and reduce emissions across key sectors in Bangladesh.

The funding will come from an International Development Association (IDA) credit, with a potential grant to support clean cooking initiatives as part of the National Air Quality Management Plan.

The announcement followed a high-level meeting at the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, where World Bank South Asia Region Vice President Martin Raiser and World Bank Bangladesh Country Director Abdoulaye Seck met with the Environment Adviser.

During the meeting, Syeda Rizwana Hasan also called for the World Bank’s assistance in improving waste management and restoring Dhaka’s canals to create a "blue network." She further mentioned exploring support for a Loss and Damage Fund, as well as aid in implementing the National Adaptation Plan (NAP). The adviser reiterated the government's dedication to environmental protection and sustainable development, stressing the need for integrated water resource management and climate change mitigation.

World Bank Vice President Martin Raiser praised Bangladesh’s environmental initiatives, affirming the Bank's support in aligning these efforts with global best practices. Country Director Abdoulaye Seck highlighted the significance of international collaboration and strategic investments for achieving sustainability goals.

Officials from the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, alongside World Bank representatives, also participated in the discussions. Both parties pledged to enhance cooperation on environmental governance, climate resilience, and water resource management to secure a sustainable future for Bangladesh.

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