Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman visited the country’s Jute Pavilion in the Green Zone of the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) in Antalya, Türkiye, on Thursday.

During the visit, the prime minister also spoke with a group of students from the University of Chicago in the United States who were visiting the pavilion. He called for collective efforts to protect the environment and ensure a healthy and sustainable future for humanity.

Tarique Rahman visited the pavilion at around 10:00 am local time on Thursday (November 12). He was welcomed by State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed and State Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Sheikh Faridul Islam.

During the visit, the prime minister viewed various environmentally friendly jute products displayed at the pavilion.

A group of students from the University of Chicago, who had travelled to attend COP31, were also visiting the pavilion at the time.

The prime minister spoke with the students and asked about their interest in Bangladesh’s jute products. They said they were keen to learn more about the country’s eco-friendly jute products and study the subject further.

Tarique Rahman said everyone must work together to protect the planet’s environment and ensure that people can live healthy and fulfilling lives.

Officials in charge of the pavilion informed the prime minister that 129 types of jute products were being showcased, including bags, various small accessories, shoes and blazers. They said the products were not only environmentally friendly but also held significant potential in international markets.

They further said representatives from various countries had visited the pavilion and expressed interest in Bangladesh’s jute products. Many had also shown interest in importing the products from Bangladesh.

Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman, Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo, and State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humayun Kabir were also present during the visit.