India-Bangladesh Seek to Boost Cooperation in Renewable Energy

Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma met with Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo on Wednesday to discuss strengthening bilateral cooperation in renewable energy and climate action.

During the meeting at the Secretariat, High Commissioner Verma briefed the Minister on India’s progress in non-fossil fuel energy. He emphasized India's ambitious targets and expressed interest in joint initiatives to increase renewable energy capacity in both nations.

The discussion also covered the implementation of a carbon trading system and collaboration on international climate platforms. Verma formally invited Bangladesh to become a full member of the International Big Cat Alliance, noting Bangladesh’s participation in its inaugural meeting.

Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo highlighted the potential for importing hydropower from Nepal via India, stressing the need for enhanced grid connectivity. He acknowledged that while India has an established framework for renewable energy and carbon trading, Bangladesh is still developing its structure. To facilitate knowledge sharing, an Indian delegation has invited Bangladeshi officials to visit India for a technical exchange.

The Minister confirmed that while Bangladesh is currently associated with the International Big Cat Alliance, the government is considering India's request to formalize full membership.