State Minister for Foreign Affairs Ms. Shama Obaed Islam, MP, met H.R.H. Princess Abze Djigma, a Mossi Princess from Burkina Faso, on 11 November 2026 on the sidelines of the COP31 conference in Antalya, Türkiye. The two leaders discussed the particular burden that climate change places on women and children in vulnerable communities.
Princess Djigma, a leading voice on empowerment of women and youth, highlighted the need for inclusive climate policies that consider gendered impacts. The State Minister described how salinity, floods and cyclones affect women’s work and health in coastal Bangladesh and disrupt the schooling of children.
Both officials agreed on the importance of empowering women in decision‑making by promoting income‑generating activities. The State Minister noted that Bangladesh has revised its Climate Change and Gender Action Plan and is actively implementing it, seeking sustained support from international partners.
The dialogue also covered broader themes of sustainable development, adaptation and mitigation, a just transition, and capacity building for people and countries. Climate finance and renewable energy were identified as critical areas for cooperation.
Economic development and poverty eradication were cited as essential to enhance community resilience against climate shocks. The officials stressed that targeted investments can help vulnerable populations adapt more effectively.
The meeting underscored Bangladesh’s commitment to integrating gender considerations into its climate strategy and the value of diplomatic engagement with global partners to secure the necessary resources and expertise.
Why it matters
The meeting highlights Bangladesh’s need for international support to address gender‑specific climate vulnerabilities.