DHAKA, Sept 6, (V7N) - Bangladesh reaffirms commitment to climate cooperation with MaldivesMaldives Dr Md Nazmul Islam made the remarks while participating in the "Youth Track to COP31" programme organised by UNICEF Maldives in Male today, according to a press release issued by the Bangladesh High Commission in Male.
Maldivian Minister of Climate Change, Environment and Energy Ali Shareef attended the programme as the chief guest.
Addressing the event, the Bangladesh envoy stressed greater youth engagement in climate action, saying Bangladesh and the Maldives share many of the same vulnerabilities arising from climate change.
"Bangladesh and the Maldives both face common vulnerabilities to climate change. Sea-level rise, degradation of coastal and marine ecosystems and various environmental challenges are directly affecting the lives of people and economic development in both countries," he said.
Dr Nazmul said the shared challenges provided a strong foundation for Dhaka and Male to deepen their partnership in climate adaptation, environmental conservation and resilience-building.
He said Bangladesh has consistently sought to advance the interests of climate-vulnerable and developing nations in international climate negotiations while pursuing climate-resilient development at home.
The High Commissioner identified climate adaptation, environmental conservation, social forestry, the blue economy and youth-led green initiatives as potential areas where Bangladesh and the Maldives could work together by drawing on their respective experiences.
He said Bangladesh would also continue working with the Maldives through joint and multilateral diplomatic efforts to advance climate finance and climate justice at the international level.
The two countries could further strengthen cooperation through exchanges of knowledge, technology and experience, he added.
Describing young people as important agents of innovative change in tackling the long-term impacts of climate change, Dr Nazmul thanked UNICEF Maldives for organising the "Youth Track to COP31" initiative.
He said Bangladesh remained ready to work closely with the Maldivian government and regional partners towards building a more resilient, sustainable and environmentally friendly future.
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