Jute as a sustainable alternative to plastic for global environmental protection
PM Tarique Rahman Visits Bangladesh Jute Pavilion at COP31
- Visits the Bangladesh Jute Pavilion in the Green Zone of COP31 in Antalya, Turkey
- Interacts with international climate experts and University of Chicago representatives on jute diplomacy
- Showcases nearly 550 kg of eco-friendly jute products spanning 130 diverse varieties
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman visited the Bangladesh Jute Pavilion at the Green Zone of the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) in Antalya, Turkey. On Thursday, November 12, 2026, around 10:00 AM local time, the Prime Minister and his spouse Dr. Zubaida Rahman arrived at the pavilion, where they were welcomed by State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaid Islam and State Minister for Environment Sheikh Faridul Islam. Deputy Press Secretary Hasan Shiplu confirmed the details, highlighting the premier's engagement with global stakeholders.
The visit was attended by Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman, Environment Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo, State Minister for Environment Sheikh Faridul Islam, and State Ministers for Foreign Affairs Humayun Kabir and Shama Obaid. During the tour, the Prime Minister exchanged views with representatives from the Zero Waste Foundation, Turkey's Agriculture and Rural Development Support Institution, the University of Chicago’s Institute for Climate and Sustainable Growth, and leading European environmental experts, discussing the comprehensive jute ecosystem, innovation, and trade potential. Emphasizing jute's vital role as a plastic alternative, the Prime Minister stated that everyone must unite to save the planet and that Bangladesh seeks sustainable solutions for environmental preservation.
While at the pavilion, the Prime Minister spoke with a delegation of students from the University of Chicago, inquiring about their interest in Bangladeshi jute goods and remarking that collective action is essential to protect the global environment and ensure a healthy future for humanity. The pavilion showcases nearly 550 kg of diversified jute products across 129 to 130 categories, including blazers, sarees, school bags, carpets, shoes, toys, and composite hardboards. International delegates visiting the exhibition have expressed profound interest, with several showing enthusiasm for importing these eco-friendly goods from Bangladesh. Notably, this marks the first time Bangladesh has established a dedicated jute pavilion at a UN climate summit to project jute as a primary plastic alternative in environmental diplomacy.
//DBTech/ANSCN/RESME/FOPTE//
