Syeda Rizwana Hasan, advisor for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, today said the Asian Development Bank (ADB) will assist Bangladesh in implementing low-cost river cleaning projects in important rivers, particularly Buriganga, Turag, and Balu.

The ADB’s support will also extend to implementation of Bangladesh’s action-oriented climate plans, including the National Adaptation Plan (NAP), she said.

The environment adviser revealed the information during a meeting with Edimon Ginting, ADB’s Country Director, held at the Bangladesh Secretariat here.

Rizwana Hasan emphasised the importance of involvement of private sector and youth in environmental protection efforts.

She also highlighted the need for capacity building and sought ADB’s assistance in establishing a training institute for Department of Environment (DoE) officials.

Rizwana Hasan expressed her appreciation for ADB’s ongoing support in various environmental and climate-related projects in Bangladesh.

She stressed continued collaboration to strengthen the country’s resilience to climate change and ensure sustainable development.

During the meeting, imnovative approaches and financing mechanisms were highlighted as crucial to effectively addressing these challenges.

Edimon Ginting reaffirmed ADB’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh in achieving its environmental and climate goals.

He announced that the ADB will assist in river cleaning efforts using AI technology and discussed future plans for expanding their initiatives in the country.

He also invited Rizwana Hasan to participate as a speaker in the High-level Session of the Climate Adaptation Investment Planning Forum (CAIP2024), scheduled for September 17-18, 2024, at ADB Headquarters in Manila, Philippines.

Environment Secretary Dr Farhina Ahmed and senior officials from the ministry and the ADB were also present at the meeting.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to continued partnership in promoting environmental sustainability and climate resilience in Bangladesh.