Japan has shown keen interest in financing specific projects, particularly emphasizing disaster resilience and green financing through JICA, said Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Minister Saber Hossain Chowdhury on Tuesday.

Ambassador Kiminori expressed his country’s keenness while he was engaged in a productive discussion with Saber Hossain at the Secretariat on Tuesday. Both parties expressed anticipation for future projects and programs, with Ambassador Kiminori reaffirming Japan's unwavering support for Bangladesh's endeavors to combat climate change and bolster resilience to its impacts.

Bangladesh's annual funding requirement is of $9 billion for climate change initiatives, with the government presently allocating $3 billion, resulting in a substantial shortfall of $6 billion, said Saber. Stressing the pivotal role of assistance from institutions like the ADB and World Bank, he highlighted the necessity for both multilateral and bilateral cooperation, noting Bangladesh's efficient utilization of available funds to address national needs, he said.

The dialogue between Ambassador Kiminori and Minister Chowdhury encompassed bilateral cooperation in environmental conservation, sustainable forestry practices, and climate change mitigation strategies. Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to bolstering the enduring friendship between Japan and Bangladesh through collaborative efforts in tackling pressing environmental challenges.

Discussions delved into the preservation of biodiversity, water bodies, natural resources, disaster management, climate change adaptation, as well as initiatives like the Mujib Climate Prosperity Plan and the Bangladesh Climate Development Partnership and Economic Partnership Agreement with Japan.

In the realm of economic collaboration, the meeting also touched upon Japanese companies' initiatives in promoting power plants and other projects in Bangladesh. The meeting concluded with the shared commitment of Japan and Bangladesh to deepen mutual understanding and cooperation in environmental conservation efforts, echoing the enduring bonds of friendship and partnership between the two nations.

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