Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan has underscored the urgency of joint, trust-based cooperation among South Asian nations to confront escalating environmental challenges in the region.

She made the remarks during a meeting at Secretariat with South Asian Cooperative Environment Programme (SACEP) Director General Norbu Wangchuk, where both sides discussed ways to deepen regional cooperation on climate action, environmental protection and cross-border ecological threats.

She said collaborative action, supported by continuous dialogue, is essential for addressing issues that transcend borders.

Rizwana highlighted the crucial role of regional platforms such as SACEP in tackling shared concerns, including transboundary air pollution, river basin management, cross-border plastic waste movement and the protection of sensitive ecosystems like the Sundarbans.

Wangchuk briefed the Adviser on SACEP’s ongoing work across member countries, covering climate adaptation, biodiversity conservation, air quality improvement and efforts to curb marine pollution.

He commended Bangladesh’s leadership in environmental governance and reaffirmed SACEP’s commitment to supporting the country through joint projects, capacity-building efforts, and multi-donor funding initiatives.

Rizwana called for stronger collaboration between Bangladesh and SACEP, particularly in climate adaptation, air-quality management and biodiversity conservation.

She stressed the need for environmental priorities to remain central in policymaking, irrespective of political or economic shifts. Wangchuk also provided updates on SACEP’s governance structure, upcoming Governing Council meetings and expanded plans for technical and programmatic cooperation.

He invited Bangladesh to take a more active leadership role in future initiatives, including regional air-quality programmes supported by international partners.

The Adviser welcomed SACEP’s continued assistance and reiterated Bangladesh’s commitment to advancing shared environmental solutions for South Asia.

She expressed optimism that stronger regional cooperation would deliver real benefits for the people of the region, especially those most vulnerable to climate impacts.

Dr. Farhana Ahmed, Secretary of Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, along with senior ministry officials, was present at the meeting.