Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Saber Hossain Chowdhury on Sunday said, as Bangladesh is badly in need of resources to combat impacts of climate change and Asian Development Bank (ADB) will increase cooperation in Bangladesh for climate actions.
With a staggering requirement of $9 billion for climate action, the minister highlighted the government's allocation of $3.5 billion, earmarked for infrastructure development, disaster management, and education.
He said this in a meeting with a delegation led by Asian Development Bank Vice President Fatima Yasmin at his office at the secretariat.
Country Director of ADB in Bangladesh Edimon Ginting also attended the meeting.
Acknowledging the reluctance of the private sector to invest in adaptation efforts, Saber stressed the importance of monetising adaptation and prioritising locally led initiatives.
Additionally, he underscored the significance of addressing trans-boundary air pollution, which accounts for 30 per cent of air pollution in Bangladesh.
Vice President of ADB Fatima Yasmin expressed ADB's unwavering commitment to supporting Bangladesh in implementing crucial initiatives such as the Delta Plan, Mujib Climate Prosperity Plan, and National Adaptation Plan.
She reaffirmed ADB's strong partnership with Bangladesh and its dedication to undertaking transformational projects with a heightened focus on climate change resilience.
Out of the total allocation of $9.8 billion, ADB has pledged $2 billion specifically for Bangladesh, signifying its profound commitment to the nation's sustainable development goals.
