Ambassador of the European Union to Bangladesh and Head of the EU Delegation Michael Miller spoke at Khulna University’s Liaquat Ali Auditorium today. Photo: BSS

KHULNA, Sept 11, 2025 (BSS) - Ambassador of the European Union to Bangladesh and Head of the EU Delegation Michael Miller has said that climate change is the greatest challenge facing the world today.

“It affects not only the environment but also every sector of the economy and society, including agriculture, forestry, urbanisation, health, and security,” he said while speaking as the keynote speaker at a dialogue titled “NDC 3.0 for COP30: Dialogue on Agriculture, Forestry and Urbanisation” at Khulna University’s Liaquat Ali Auditorium today.

Ambassador Miller said Bangladesh is one of the most climate-vulnerable countries, with agriculture and rural livelihoods under severe threat. Therefore, environment-friendly strategies must be integrated into economic and development planning, he added. 

He emphasised that no single country can tackle climate change alone—international cooperation is essential. Effective solutions will require sharing technology, experiences, and innovation across nations, he said. 

Highlighting the role of youth, he said today’s young generation will lead tomorrow, and within their ideas and innovations lie the keys to a sustainable future. 

He urged young people to take the lead in renewable energy, green technology, sustainable agriculture, and eco-friendly urban planning.

“If we do not act now, the existence of future generations will be at risk. However, through coordinated action, this crisis can be overcome,” he said.

On education and research, the ambassador reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to expanding higher education and research opportunities for students.
Through the Erasmus+ programme, students from Bangladesh and around the world can study at European universities and exchange experiences, helping to build a global network, he added. 

The event was jointly organised by Khulna University, the Bangladesh Institute of Planners (BIP), and Youth for NDC.

Addressing as the chief guest, Vice-Chancellor of Khulna University  Professor Dr. Md. Rezaul Karim, said Khulna faces the realities of climate change daily, with cyclones, salinity, river erosion, and sea-level rise posing constant threats.

He stressed that the upcoming Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) are crucial, as they will prioritise climate-smart agriculture, sustainable forestry, and resilient urbanisation.

KU researchers are already working on salt-tolerant crops, mangrove conservation, and sustainable city planning, sharing their findings with the government and development partners.

He assured that Khulna University is ready to collaborate with the EU and other international partners and is capable of leading policy discussions.

The event featured welcome and closing remarks from Professor Dr. Md. Ashiqur Rahman, Director of the Office of International Affairs. Other speakers included BIP President Professor Dr. Adil Muhammad Khan and Fayaz from Youth for NDC.

In the panel discussion, participants included Edwin Kweku-Kweku, Team Leader for Green Inclusive Development and Social Protection at the EU, Professor Dr. Md. Zakir Hossain from the Urban and Rural Planning Discipline of KU, Professor Dr. Md. Najmus Sadat, Director of Student Affairs and Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology, and Professor Dr. Mosammat Sabiha Sultana from the Agrotechnology Discipline.

BIP General Secretary Sheikh Muhammad Mehedi Hasan moderated the session.

EU Delegation Programme Manager Jui Chakma also spoke, presenting details about the Erasmus+ higher education programme.

The event was anchored by Sumaiya Akter and Taskina Sakin, with participation from faculty and students of various KU disciplines.

Earlier in the morning, Ambassador Michael Miller was welcomed with flowers upon his arrival at Khulna University.

He later paid a courtesy call on the Vice-Chancellor, who briefed him about the university.