Bangladesh and the Maldives can translate their shared climate experiences into practical bilateral cooperation on adaptation, coastal protection and the blue economy, Bangladesh’s High Commissioner to the Maldives Dr Md Nazmul Islam said.
Islam was speaking at the Youth Track to COP31 programme organised and facilitated by UNICEF Maldives in Malé. Maldives Minister of Climate Change, Environment and Energy Ali Shareef attended as chief guest.
The programme brought together young people and stakeholders to promote meaningful youth participation in climate action and to encourage innovative ideas for addressing the growing challenges posed by climate change.
The Bangladesh high commissioner appreciated the enthusiasm, creativity and commitment of the young participants and encouraged them to continue contributing to a more sustainable, resilient and environmentally responsible future.
He said Bangladesh and the Maldives share common climate vulnerabilities and challenges, including the impacts of sea-level rise, environmental degradation and the increasing risks posed by climate change.
These shared challenges provide a strong foundation for deeper cooperation between the two countries in climate adaptation, environmental protection, resilience-building and sustainable development, Islam said.
The high commissioner highlighted the Bangladesh government’s strong commitment to climate action, both nationally and through regional and multilateral platforms.
As a highly climate-vulnerable country, Bangladesh has continued to pursue climate-resilient development while advocating for the interests of vulnerable developing countries in international climate negotiations, he said.
He stressed that the two countries can further translate their shared climate experiences into practical bilateral cooperation, particularly in areas such as climate adaptation, environmental conservation, tree plantation, coastal and marine ecosystem protection, blue economy, climate-resilient development and youth-led environmental initiatives.
Islam also highlighted the potential for greater trilateral and multilateral cooperation involving international organisations, development partners and other climate-vulnerable countries.
Such partnerships can facilitate the exchange of knowledge, technology, expertise and best practices and strengthen collective efforts on climate resilience, climate finance, environmental sustainability and climate justice, he said.
The high commissioner also underscored the importance of youth engagement in climate diplomacy and climate action, saying young people are not only among those most affected by the long-term consequences of climate change but also important agents of innovation, awareness and positive change.
The Bangladesh High Commission appreciated UNICEF Maldives for organising the programme and for creating a meaningful platform for young people to share their perspectives and contribute to the global climate agenda.
Islam reaffirmed that Bangladesh attaches great importance to strengthening its climate partnership with the Maldives and expressed readiness to work closely with the Maldivian government and relevant national, regional and international partners in advancing environmental sustainability, climate resilience and sustainable development.
The high commission said it remained committed to supporting initiatives that promote climate action, youth participation, environmental cooperation and stronger people-to-people and institutional ties between Bangladesh and the Maldives, contributing to a more resilient and sustainable future for both countries and the wider region.