Norwegian Ambassador to Bangladesh Sidsel Bleken has said the Nordic countries hope to work with Bangladesh to reach a global agreement to combat marine plastic litter and microplastics, reports UNB.
"We need to work together to ensure not only a greener, but also a bluer economy. We are worried about the rapidly increasing levels of marine plastic litter and microplastics," she said while sharing the stage of Nordic Day reception with Danish Ambassador Winnie E. Petersen and Swedish Ambassador Charlotta Schlyter at Nordic Club on Monday evening.
Health Minister Zahid Maleque was present as the chief guest at the celebrations attended by diplomats stationed in Dhaka, business leaders and civil society representatives.
In future, Ambassador Sidsel said, the oceans will be even more crucial for global food security, poverty reduction, international transport, and efforts to address climate change and the environment.
She said ensuring that the oceans are healthy and productive for the future generation is high on the agenda both in Bangladesh and in Nordic countries.
On business relations, Ambassador Sidsel said sustainable and green business, financing and procurement is the future. "And we see new win-win opportunities between Nordic and Bangladeshi companies steadily growing."
The Norwegian Ambassador said sustainable business is something that so many Nordic companies represent.
"This is something that we want you to remember from this Nordic evening. Nordic companies represent a more sustainable and more innovative way of doing business. Ever increasing investments and efforts go into creating green solutions, clean energy and circular economy," she said.
Ambassador Winnie said they share a "strong commitment" to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and to support other countries in achieving the goals.
She said they cooperate in international organisations such as the United Nations, where they present joint candidatures.
