News Flash
DHAKA, Feb 18, 2025 (BSS) – Adviser for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change
Syeda Rizwana Hasan today laid emphasis on clarity in climate finance, criticizing how its
definition has been stretched to include various forms of assistance.
She emphasised that while historical emitters bear primary responsibility, major developing
economies should also contribute.
The adviser said this while meeting with Australian Ambassador for Climate Change Kristin
Tilley at a hotel in the city, a ministry press release said.
Syeda Rizwana Hasan, however, cautioned against extreme positions that could risk vital
climate funding.
Highlighting Bangladesh’s approach, she noted the country’s openness to broadening the pool
of climate finance contributors but underscored the fundamental difference in motivations—
some countries seek to sustain consumerist lifestyles, while others prioritize poverty
eradication.
She also acknowledged the challenges of transitioning away from fossil fuels, particularly for
economies heavily dependent on them.
Regarding global climate governance, Rizwana Hasan praised the architecture of the Paris
Agreement but expressed concerns about the lack of global progress.
She noted that while the five-year cycle of increasing ambition remains a strong framework,
the world is not on track to meet climate goals.
She also pointed to obstructionist tactics in both fossil fuel and plastics negotiations as
significant barriers to progress.
On Australia's bid to host COP31 in 2026, Rizwana Hasan raised concerns over restrictive
visa policies, warning that access limitations could hinder participation from the Global South,
similar to challenges seen at previous COPs. She urged Australia to ensure inclusivity if
selected as the host.
Kristin Tilley reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to collaborative climate action.
She recognized Bangladesh’s leadership in adaptation but noted its limited presence in high-
level negotiations.
She stressed that current global efforts focus more on securing projects rather than driving
systemic change.
On loss and damage, she acknowledged financing shortfalls while defending Australia’s
cautious stance on accessibility.
Both leaders agreed on the need for stronger bilateral cooperation and regional partnerships to
complement multilateral efforts.
Despite frustrations with UN processes, they emphasized the importance of keeping the
UNFCCC framework alive while exploring alternative avenues for climate action.
Earlier, Environment Adviser participated in a dialogue on "Bangladesh-Australia: Climate
Policy and the Green Energy Transition" held at the same hotel in the city.
Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) organised the event.
Australian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Susan Ryle delivered the introductory remarks
while CPD Executive Director Dr Fahmida Khatun chaired the event.
CPD Research Director Dr Khondaker Golam Moazzem delivered the Keynote presentation.
