C T Online Desk: DALIAN, China, June 23, 2026- Prime Minister Tarique Rahman today called upon the leaders around the world to deliver on their commitments for the millions whose lives are at stake due to climate change.
“It is time to turn climate pledges into actions, and commitments into results, so that the world can embrace the future with confidence. We hope COP31 will rise to this challenge, and Bangladesh stands ready to play its part,” he said.
The Prime Minister said this in his opening remarks at a session titled “Climate Leadership in a Shifting Global Landscape” at the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) 17th Annual Meeting of the New Champions here at Dalian International Conference Center.
He underscored that COP31, the upcoming 31st session of the United Nations Climate Change Conference to be held in Turkey in November next, should reaffirm the goals and spirit of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement.
In this regard, he said, the WEF provides a valuable platform to foster dialogue, build consensus, and encourage collective action.
Tarique Rahman said Bangladesh believes that climate action is not a cost. “We see this as a much-needed investment for prosperity, stability, and shared future. Together we all here can build a future that is greener, safer, more sustainable, and more just,” he added.
Noting that climate resilience cannot be built by any country alone, the Prime Minister said it requires partnership, technology, finance, and shared commitment.
“As we look ahead to COP31 and COP32, we wish to emphasise three priorities,” he said.
“First, the Loss and Damage Fund must move from promise to delivery, with accessible and predictable support for victim nations. Second, climate finance must become more accessible, concessional, and responsive to the needs of vulnerable countries. It should also accelerate technology transfer and private-sector investment. In this regard, we need greater mobilisation and operationalization of the Green Climate Fund (GCF),” said Tarique Rahman.
As the third priority, he said adaptation must stand alongside mitigation. For countries like Bangladesh, adaptation is not a policy option, it is a necessity, he added.
