Norwegian Delegation Holds Meeting with Rizwana

A high-level Norwegian delegation, led by Stine Renate Håheim, State Secretary to the Minister of International Development, met today with Environment, Forest and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan at the Bangladesh Secretariat to discuss enhanced bilateral cooperation on climate and environmental issues.

The meeting was attended by senior officials from the Norwegian Embassy, including Senior Advisers Gunhild Eriksen and Kristin Lunden, and Ambassador Arne Harald Gulbradsen, according to a press release from the ministry.

Discussions focused on joint efforts in tackling the climate crisis, promoting renewable energy, conserving forests, and advancing sustainable development. The Norwegian side commended Bangladesh’s progressive renewable energy policies.

Rizwana outlined the ministry’s priorities, including equitable climate finance distribution and the implementation of adaptation projects to address salinity and flooding, especially through initiatives like ensuring access to safe drinking water. She also highlighted plans to support farmers through the development of small cold storage facilities.

On environmental protection, Rizwana stressed Bangladesh’s commitment to river and forest conservation, noting that a significant share of climate funds is dedicated to land restoration and afforestation to maintain ecological balance.

She voiced serious concerns over the ship breaking industry, citing ongoing violations of environmental and labor standards. “Without reforms aligned with global norms, this sector cannot be considered green,” she stated. The Norwegian delegation expressed interest in supporting research and policy reform in this area.

The delegation also emphasized the value of increased investments in renewable and eco-friendly projects, while Rizwana underscored the need to improve the overall investment climate by ensuring political stability and curbing corruption.

Reaffirming Norway’s support for Bangladesh’s climate goals, Håheim expressed her country’s strong interest in deepening collaboration on sustainable development. Both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation on climate adaptation, forest conservation, and the promotion of green industries.