State Minister for Planning Shahiduzzaman Sarker on Tuesday emphasised the collective commitment towards building a greener and more inclusive future for Bangladesh.

He was speaking at a seminar titled "Inclusive Green Business and the Situation of Northern Chars in Bangladesh" as the chief guest.

The state minister unveiled the findings of a crucial research study – a situational analysis of the riverine islands conducted by GreenTech Foundation Bangladesh with support from Cordaid Bangladesh and the SONGO project.

The research focused on the Rangpur division, particularly Kurigram (covering Chilmari, Char Rajibpur and Raumari Upazila) and Gaibandha (Sadar, Fulchhari, Sundarganj Upazila) districts, analyzing the specific challenges faced by communities residing on sandbars, riverine chars, and island chars.

By understanding their vulnerabilities, the potential for green inclusive development can be explored to create sustainable economic opportunities while protecting the environment.

The seminar brought together policymakers, industry leaders, academics, and civil society representatives to discuss innovative approaches to sustainable agriculture that prioritize environmental stewardship, social equity and economic prosperity.

Representatives from various sectors with a common purpose – advancing sustainable development and ensuring community well-being joined the seminar.

The seminar, jointly organized by Cordaid Bangladesh and GreenTech Foundation, in collaboration with the Sustained Opportunities for Nutrition Governance (SONGO) project funded by the European Union, brought together delegates from prominent organizations, including the European Union, GIZ, USAID, UNDP, ADB, JICA, and other esteemed INGOs and NGOs.

Major Gen. (Retd.) Salah Uddin Miaji, MP, member of the Parliamentary Standing Committee, highlighted the critical need to address the challenges faced by these regions.

Team Leader- Green Inclusive Development and Social Protection, EU Delegation to Bangladesh Edwin Koekkoek, reiterated the EU's commitment as a key partner in pursuing sustainable development.

Deputy Head of Mission, Kingdom of the Netherlands Thijs Woudstra, representing a nation championing environmental responsibility and social equity, emphasised the importance of fostering inclusive green businesses.

Programme specialist at UNDP Bangladesh Arif M Faisal underscored the necessity of inclusive and sustainable development strategies.

“We’re committed to supporting Bangladesh's efforts to promote sustainable and inclusive development for all,” said the EU in a message.