Bangladesh and Türkiye have discussed cooperation ahead of the upcoming United Nations Climate Change Conference, COP31, with climate diplomacy, renewable energy and investment among the areas raised during high-level discussions.

The talks took place on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, where Bangladesh’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kabir met Türkiye’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan.

One of the key issues discussed was the possible participation of Bangladesh’s Prime Minister in COP31, which Türkiye is scheduled to host in Antalya.

Focus on COP31

COP31 is scheduled to take place in Antalya from November 9 to 20, 2026.

The climate summit is expected to bring together governments, international organisations, climate experts and other stakeholders to discuss global efforts to address climate change.

For Bangladesh, climate negotiations are particularly important because the country remains highly exposed to risks associated with rising temperatures, flooding, cyclones, sea-level rise and other climate-related impacts.

Türkiye’s role as host of COP31 also gives Ankara an important diplomatic role in preparations for the summit.

Possible High-Level Participation

During the meeting, Bangladesh and Türkiye exchanged views on the possible participation of Bangladesh’s Prime Minister at COP31.

No final decision on the Prime Minister’s participation was announced in the discussions.

High-level participation at international climate conferences can provide governments with an opportunity to directly engage with other leaders and negotiate on issues involving climate finance, adaptation and sustainable development.

Bangladesh has consistently highlighted the importance of international support for countries vulnerable to climate change.

Renewable Energy Cooperation

Renewable and green energy were also among the areas discussed by the two sides.

The transition toward cleaner energy sources has become a major component of global climate policy.

Bangladesh is seeking to expand renewable-energy capacity while also addressing its growing energy requirements.

Cooperation with international partners can provide opportunities for investment, technology transfer and development of clean-energy projects.

Türkiye has also been developing its renewable-energy sector, creating potential areas for cooperation between the two countries.

Investment Opportunities

The discussions also covered investment opportunities for Turkish companies in Bangladesh.

Bangladesh is seeking greater foreign investment in areas that can support industrial development, employment and economic growth.

Turkish businesses could potentially explore opportunities in sectors connected with infrastructure, energy, manufacturing and other areas of economic cooperation.

Stronger investment links can also contribute to expanding bilateral trade and strengthening long-term economic relations.

Defence and High-Level Visits

Bangladesh and Türkiye also discussed defence cooperation and the possibility of high-level visits between the two countries.

Defence cooperation can include areas such as training, institutional exchanges and other forms of bilateral engagement.

High-level visits can provide additional opportunities for governments to discuss political, economic and strategic issues.

The latest meeting therefore covered a broad range of subjects extending beyond climate diplomacy.

Sports Cooperation

Bangladesh also invited Türkiye to participate in an international sports conference that Bangladesh plans to host in early 2027.

Sports exchanges can provide another avenue for strengthening people-to-people relations between the two countries.

International conferences also provide opportunities for governments to develop cooperation in areas outside traditional diplomatic and economic relations.

Strengthening Bilateral Relations

The discussions demonstrate the breadth of Bangladesh-Türkiye relations, which include diplomatic, economic, defence, energy and cultural dimensions.

Both sides expressed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in areas of mutual interest.

The upcoming COP31 summit provides an additional opportunity for the two countries to engage on climate-related issues.

For Bangladesh, cooperation with Türkiye could also support its broader diplomatic efforts ahead of the climate negotiations.

Looking Ahead

As COP31 approaches, climate diplomacy is expected to become an increasingly important part of international discussions.

Bangladesh will continue preparing its positions on climate finance, adaptation, resilience and other issues relevant to vulnerable developing countries.

Türkiye, as host of the conference, will have an important role in facilitating international discussions.

The latest Bangladesh-Türkiye meeting demonstrates how bilateral diplomacy can complement wider multilateral climate negotiations.

With cooperation also extending to renewable energy, investment, defence and sports, the two countries are seeking to broaden their relationship while preparing for important international discussions on climate change.