Syeda Rizwana Hasan, adviser to the ministries of Environment and Water Resources, has opined that Bangladesh's partnership with the World Bank (WB) is essential for advancing the country's national environmental priorities.
She said it during a meeting with a delegation of the global lender, led by WB Practice Manager Christian Albert Peter, at the secretariat in the capital on Sunday.
The adviser also highlighted the WB's partnership in reaching Bangladesh's environmental goals, while the WB delegation emphasised environmental safeguards and exploring opportunities for sustainable development here.
"Together, we aim to strengthen the nation's defences against climate threats, protect biodiversity, and foster a sustainable environment for our people," Syeda Rizwana stated.
Christian Albert Peter expressed the WB's commitment to supporting initiatives that promote green growth, environmental protection, and community resilience amid climate change challenges.
"Our shared vision with Bangladesh is to integrate environmental considerations into all development projects, ensuring long-term ecological health and socio-economic well-being," he added.
The meeting concluded with an agreement to explore project areas and strategic interventions to address climate adaptation, sustainable development, and biodiversity conservation.
Both the sides expressed optimism about the positive impacts of these initiatives, reaffirming their dedication to environmental stewardship and sustainable growth in Bangladesh.
Along with the ministry officials concerned, WB's senior environmental specialists Ana Lusia Gomes Lima and Eun Joo Allison Yi, and environmental economist Jihae Kwon were present in the meeting.
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