Dhaka (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – European Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness and Crisis Management Hadja Lahbib emphasised more cooperation in disaster management, preparedness and climate change, including flood control, stating that the European Union is keen to exchange “good practices” and preparedness techniques with Bangladesh.
In a meeting, visiting European Commissioner lauded Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus, the leadership at the critical juncture of the country.
“You did an extraordinary job at an extraordinary time. My main message is that we are ready to reinforce our cooperation.”
Lahbib said the EU is set to provide 68 million euros this year for the Rohingya response, including host communities in Bangladesh and for the Myanmar dispute, especially for the people seized in violence in Myanmar’s Western Rakhine state.
How does the EU plan to tackle climate challenges in Bangladesh?
The Commissioner further said, despite the reality that the amount is more than the initial EU assistance last year, it is still not sufficient to avoid the risk of a significant decline of the humanitarian situation in the camps.
She said the only answer to the trouble is peace.
“We need to remain prepared for all kinds of disasters, including man-made disasters. Such disasters also include disinformation,”
She expressed.
The European Commissioner also restated EU support for the reform plan of the Interim administration.
“It is a very important strategic window that we are witnessing. We know there is always resistance when you want to change something. So, a lot is needed to be done. We are here beside you,”
She stated.
Honoured to meet@ChiefAdviserGoB Muhammad Yunus.
— Hadja Lahbib (@hadjalahbib) March 3, 2025
EU supports the reform ambitions of interim government for peaceful & inclusive political transition.
We look forward to negotiating a new comprehensive partnership agreement with Bangladesh.
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What did Prof. Yunus say during the meeting?
In response, Prof Yunus restated his government’s support for the Rohingya humanitarian crisis. He stated it is a “big issue” for Bangladesh.
“It has been going on for several years without any solution. There’s no expiry date.
“We are very happy to see you visit Bangladesh. The UN secretary-general is coming. We are trying to draw international attention to the Rohingya crisis,”
Stated Prof Yunus.
“We talk about renewable energy, and here is the renewable energy. Both Nepal and Bhutan are very keen to sell renewable energy to us,”
The Chief Adviser stated.
