A Correspondent:
Dalian, China: Prime Minister Tarique Rahman yesterday called upon the World Economic Forum (WEF) to take coordinated measures in support of delta nations like Bangladesh, which are highly vul-nerable to climate change, as well as countries threatened by rising sea levels.
He made the call when WEF President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Alois Zwinggi paid a courte-sy call on him this afternoon at Dalian International Conference Center on the sidelines of the WEF’s annual gathering here.
At the beginning of the meeting, the WEF president and CEO congratulated the Prime Minister on as-suming office as the head of government of Bangladesh.
During the discussion, Tarique Rahman praised the WEF’s various initiatives to address climate change.
Highlighting Bangladesh efforts to address climate change effects, he said they have launched an initia-tive to plant 25 crore trees over the next five years.
He also highlighted the country’s efforts to restore water flow, reduce flood risks, and protect the envi-ronment through the re-excavation of nearly 20,000 kilometers of rivers and canals.
The premier said as part of efforts to encourage renewable energy production, Bangladesh has introduced tax incentives for solar power generation and adopted a plan to generate 20 percent of its total electricity demand from renewable sources by 2030.
Alois Zwinggi expressed interest in utilizing Tarique Rahman’s experience and initiatives in combating climate change at the global level.
He said Bangladesh’s climate resilience and sustainable development initiatives would attract the attention of international financing institutions and investors.
Assuring serious consideration of the issues raised by Bangladesh, he pledged that the WEF would con-tinue to provide the necessary support.
Alois Zwinggi invited the premier to participate in the WEF’s Annual Meeting in Davos, Switzerland.
Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman, Prime Minister’s Foreign Affairs Adviser Humaiun Kobir, Bang-ladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) Executive Chairman Ashik Chowdhury and Prime Minister’s Additional Press Secretary Atikur Rahman Ruman were present on the occasion.
