Humaiun seeks Norwegian investment in renewable energy

State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir on Thursday sought Norway’s support to expand and accelerate investment in Bangladesh’s renewable energy sector.

He made the request when Norwegian Ambassador to Bangladesh Håkon Arald Gulbrandsen paid a courtesy call on him at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Dhaka, according to a press release.

During the meeting, the two sides discussed ways to further strengthen bilateral cooperation in trade and investment, renewable energy, maritime affairs, fisheries, climate change, green transition, technology transfer and environmentally sound ship recycling.

Humaiun stressed the importance of increased high-level visits between the two countries to enhance the visibility and momentum of bilateral relations.

The Norwegian ambassador expressed interest in working with Bangladesh on renewable energy initiatives and appreciated the government’s efforts towards democratic reforms.

The two sides also discussed the Rohingya issue. Gulbrandsen appreciated Bangladesh’s efforts to host the Rohingyas and reaffirmed Norway’s commitment to working closely with Bangladesh in multilateral forums for their safe, voluntary, dignified and sustainable repatriation to Myanmar.

At the outset of the meeting, Humaiun expressed condolences over the death of King Harald V and congratulated King Haakon VIII on his accession to the Norwegian throne.

The two sides expressed satisfaction over the longstanding partnership between Bangladesh and Norway and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation bilaterally and multilaterally on a wide range of issues of mutual interest.