Bangladesh and Türkiye have discussed ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation, particularly in trade and investment, technology transfer, renewable energy, waste management and people-to-people engagement.
The discussion took place when Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Türkiye, Ambassador A Berris Ekinci, met State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam at the Bangladesh Pavilion on Friday on the sidelines of COP31 in Antalya, Türkiye.
During the meeting, the two sides discussed various issues of mutual interest and stressed the need to enhance cooperation in different areas.
They also underscored the importance of working together to address environmental challenges affecting both countries and the wider international community.
Shama Obaed congratulated the Turkish deputy minister on the successful organisation of COP31 and thanked the Turkish government for its warm hospitality towards the delegates.
She also appreciated the Zero Waste initiative under the patronage of the First Lady of Türkiye, noting its alignment with Bangladesh's own 3R (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) strategy.
Both sides highlighted the importance of sharing experiences and best practices in sustainable waste management.
The state minister sought Türkiye's cooperation in promoting jute and jute-based products as eco-friendly and biodegradable alternatives to plastic.
She said Bangladesh's jute sector has significant potential to contribute to global efforts to reduce plastic pollution and promote environmentally responsible consumption.
Shama Obaed also invited the Turkish deputy minister to visit Bangladesh at a mutually convenient time.
The state minister presented jute-made handicrafts to the deputy minister as a souvenir.