Invitation from India as G-20 guest shows growing importance of Bangladesh economy: Deputy Foreign Minister Shahriar Alam Premium

Bangladesh is seeking more energy from India, refined crude from Russia, says Bangladesh’s Deputy Foreign Minister Shahriar Alam

Out of all of India’s neighbours, the Indian government has invited only Bangladesh as one of 10 guest countries during its Presidency of the G-20 beginning on December 1. Ties are likely to strengthen as a result of the invitation, which comes amidst a number of energy and connectivity projects between the two countries, says Bangladesh’s Deputy Foreign Minister Shahriar Alam, who spoke to The Hinduabout plans to source energy needs from Russia also, for the first time, and a possible strain in ties with the West.

Q / What are the issues you would like to see on the G-20 agenda next year?

A / We are grateful to India for inviting Bangladesh. And that also shows the growing importance of Bangladesh as one of the world’s fastest growing economies — already the 41st largest economy, which is going to be the 32nd largest by 2030. Bangladesh would like to share its experience with other member states on climate change. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Prime Minister Narendra Modi have identified poverty as the most common enemy. I think climate change and economic prosperity for our citizens are the priorities for us.

Q / What is your reaction to the COP27 deal, for a Loss and Damage Fund for most vulnerable countries that have been hit by climate change?

A / This was a very welcome development, especially for the Climate Vulnerable Forum (CVF) that was set up with PM Sheikh Hasina as co-chair. CVF countries, including Bangladesh, are the ground zero of climate change. So of course, we are happy. We just hope that they will deliver on their promises because, you know, everyone is short of funds at present. So, immediately after COP27, we need to start working, encouraging major economies to contribute more and exceed the original outlays.

Q / During PM Hasina’s visit in September, India and Bangladesh agreed to a number of energy projects, including a high speed diesel pipeline. What is the progress in these agreements?

A / The pipeline is one of them. The other major one is the Rooppur nuclear power plant that we are setting up with the help of the Russian technology and funding. India is funding under an LOC (Line of Credit) the distribution, the transmission lines, alongside Bangladesh’s own funding. The Adani electricity plant [in Jharkhand] is ready for integration on 16th December, and during this time of power shortage or energy shortages in the oil market, that will surely help. We are also working with India on proposals for renewable energy, bringing solar energy from the Indian grid.