Switzerland to support planting of 300,000 climate-resilient trees in Bangladesh

Switzerland has committed to supporting the planting of 300,000 climate-resilient trees in Bangladesh as part of efforts to strengthen environmental protection and climate adaptation in vulnerable regions.

The announcement was made today (4 June) during an event titled “Swiss Partnerships for a Greener Bangladesh” organised by the Embassy of Switzerland in Dhaka to mark World Environment Day 2026.

According to a press release issued by the embassy, the trees will be planted across Satkhira and Naogaon under Swiss-supported programmes, including Climate Action at Local Level and Governance for Climate-Resilient Public Service Delivery.

The initiative aims to strengthen local environmental action and enhance resilience in climate-vulnerable communities.

Water Resources Minister Md Shahiduddin Chowdhury Anee attended the event virtually as chief guest. He said Bangladesh remains among the countries most vulnerable to climate risks and that the government is prioritising locally led adaptation measures.

“Our efforts – from river and canal re-excavation to large-scale afforestation – are rooted in this principle,” he said.

Swiss Ambassador to Bangladesh Reto Renggli said climate change is no longer a challenge of the future but an urgent issue requiring immediate action.

“For Switzerland, addressing climate change is a central priority of both our domestic and foreign policy,” he said, adding that Switzerland supports practical solutions that help communities, government institutions and businesses adapt to climate risks.

Diepak Elmer, deputy head of mission and head of cooperation at the Embassy of Switzerland, said Swiss cooperation in Bangladesh is centred on partnership and practical solutions that respond to local needs.

The embassy said the initiative reflects Switzerland’s continued support for locally grounded and science-based responses to climate change and environmental degradation.

The programme brought together representatives from government agencies, development partners, Swiss NGOs, civil society organisations, academia and climate experts to discuss nature conservation, climate resilience and environmental sustainability.