Environment and Water Resources Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan. File Photo

DHAKA, Sept 7, 2025 (BSS) – Environment and Water Resources Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan today underscored Brazil’s crucial role as host of the upcoming UNFCCC COP30 in shaping the global climate agenda, reaffirming Bangladesh’s commitment to work closely with Brazil for an ambitious and inclusive outcome.

“Bangladesh is interested in exploring carbon markets under Article 6 to support mangrove conservation in the Sundarbans. But let me stress, carbon markets cannot substitute for climate finance commitments. Safeguards must ensure environmental integrity and fairness,” she said.

The adviser made the remarks while addressing a reception hosted by Brazilian Ambassador to Bangladesh Paulo Fernando Dias Feres at a city hotel this evening to celebrate the 203rd anniversary of Brazil’s independence.

Ambassadors, high commissioners, senior officials, business leaders, civil society representatives, and members of the diplomatic corps attended the event.

The adviser described Brazil as Bangladesh’s largest trading partner in Latin America, with bilateral trade reaching nearly $3 billion in 2024.

She called for greater access for Bangladeshi garments made with Brazilian cotton, removal of anti-dumping tariffs on jute, simplification of pharmaceutical registration, and expansion of joint ventures. She welcomed Brazil’s recent certification of a Bangladeshi pharmaceutical company as an encouraging step forward.

She also praised Brazil’s leadership in democracy, equity, climate action, and multilateralism, noting that Brazil was among the first South American countries to recognize Bangladesh in May 1972. 

Hasan recalled recent high-level engagements, including the visit of Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira to Dhaka in April 2024 and Bangladesh’s participation in the G20 Ministerial on Women’s Empowerment in Brazil.

Highlighting Bangladesh’s ongoing reform process under Chief Adviser Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus, she stressed the government’s commitment to inclusive governance, rule of law, and accountability.

The adviser thanked Brazil for its support for Bangladesh’s democratic aspirations, calling the country an inspiring partner in justice and equality.

Hasan announced the finalization of four MoUs on agriculture, defence, health, and sports, while 11 more are under negotiation covering areas such as ICT, disaster management, and trade dialogue.

She expressed Bangladesh’s keenness to learn from Brazil’s expertise in biofuels and sustainable farming, while offering Bangladesh’s experience in disaster resilience.

The adviser noted the enduring people-to-people bonds between the two countries, symbolized by Bangladesh’s passion for Brazilian football.