Dhaka: Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhter has stressed the necessity of active participation from high-level national leadership, including the head of the government and members of the Advisory Council, at the United Nations global climate conference COP to effectively spotlight Bangladesh's position and significance on the global platform. She made these remarks while speaking as the chief guest at a de-briefing workshop following participation in the UN Climate Conference 2025 (Conference of the Parties - COP 30), as per a ministry press release.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the workshop was organized by the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock at the Cotton Development Board this morning. Farida Akhter pointed out that Bangladesh garners significantly more attention and importance in international forums when represented by top leadership, a feat not achievable with lower-level representation. She emphasized that such participation is crucial to articulating the country's climate challenges, priorities, and accomplishments effectively.
The adviser underscored Bangladesh's rich biodiversity and noted that the country has the capacity to address multiple challenges through collective initiatives. She highlighted that coordinated efforts could substantially mitigate potential climate change-related damage, which should be a primary focus for the country.
Furthermore, Farida Akhter highlighted the importance of preserving and developing indigenous livestock breeds. She mentioned that while farmers often favor foreign breeds to boost production, local breeds are more resilient and better adapted to climate change, requiring less intensive care and management. She advocated for greater emphasis on conserving local genetic resources rather than solely increasing production through foreign imports.
Akhter also called for the development of a skilled expert group in Bangladesh, highlighting that many young professionals are already actively involved in climate-related work. She cautioned about the impacts of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) on fisheries and livestock and urged that equal importance be given to traditional knowledge and practical experience alongside technological advancements.
The workshop was chaired by Secretary of the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock Abu Tahir Muhammad Zaber, with Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Dr. Farhina Ahmed attending as a special guest.