Australia’s Ambassador for Climate Change, Kristin Tilley, has acknowledged Bangladesh’s efforts and investments in adaptation and mitigation initiatives, positioning the country as one of the most credible and influential voices in global climate negotiations.
During a courtesy meeting with Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday, she agreed on the importance of global partnerships in addressing the climate crisis and highlighted Australia’s energy transition.
Tilley noted that renewable energy currently accounts for 43% of Australia’s energy mix, with a strategic roadmap to increase this to 83% by 2030, primarily through solar and wind energy.
The Foreign Secretary sought Australia’s cooperation in the transfer of green technology and the expansion of renewable energy. He emphasised the role of global partners in taking responsibility and taking swift, pragmatic action on climate financing, alongside adaptation and mitigation efforts.
He reiterated Bangladesh’s commitment to the Paris Agreement, its proactive leadership in the Climate Vulnerable Forum (CVF), and its adoption of the National Adaptation Plan (2022). Most importantly, he reaffirmed the country’s dedication to transitioning to a Net Zero future in alignment with the Three Zero Theory of Chief Adviser, Professor Muhammad Yunus.
The Foreign Secretary called on major emitters to take responsibility through multilateral, regional, and bilateral processes.
Referring to the devastating impacts of climate change in Bangladesh, including rising sea levels, increased salinity, and frequent natural disasters, he stressed the urgent need for global attention and action. He particularly urged Australia to support climate financing and technology transfer to Bangladesh.
He also highlighted the pressing need for the early repatriation of the Forcibly Displaced Myanmar Nationals (FDMNs) to Myanmar, noting that their prolonged stay in Bangladesh is placing a significant burden not only on the economy and demography but also on the environment, contributing to deforestation and environmental degradation in Cox’s Bazar and Teknaf.
Welcoming the Ambassador, the Foreign Secretary commended the strong bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Australia, founded on shared values and mutual interests.
The discussions broadly focused on the critical challenges posed by climate change. He noted that Bangladesh, despite being responsible for just 0.48% of global CFC and CO2 emissions, remains one of the most climate-affected countries in the world.
Tilley recognised Bangladesh as a global leader in climate adaptability. Her visit underscores Australia’s commitment to finding practical solutions to shared challenges, including community resilience and the energy transition.
During her visit, she participated in a panel discussion with Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan and IFC Country Head Martin Holtmann. She also held discussions with Adviser Faruk-e-Azam.
As a key figure in Australia’s international climate diplomacy, Ambassador Tilley plays a leading role in engaging with the Pacific and Southeast Asia to address climate challenges.
