Global Leaders Praise PM Tarique Rahman as a ‘Transformative Leader’ at COP31 Summit
Global leaders participating in the 31st UN Climate Change Conference (COP31) in Antalya have hailed Prime Minister Tarique Rahman as a “transformative leader” following Bangladesh’s successful democratic transition, according to State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir. Addressing reporters at the Bangladesh Pavilion, the State Minister noted that international counterparts are taking the Prime Minister’s democratic mandate with high regard as he represents a nation of nearly 200 million people. Throughout the day, the Prime Minister maintained an active schedule, participating in the opening and plenary sessions of the World Leaders’ Summit while engaging in strategic bilateral talks and courtesy meetings with various heads of state and international delegates.
During discussions with Chinese Vice President Han Zheng, both leaders focused on strengthening political and economic cooperation, specifically exploring increased Chinese investment in energy projects like a floating LNG terminal, heavy industry, and infrastructure, alongside regional corridor development and assistance for resolving the Rohingya crisis. In his meeting with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the two sides discussed launching direct flights and streamlining visa procedures, with the Prime Minister accepting an invitation to visit Uzbekistan next year. Diplomatic exchanges also extended to leaders from Pakistan, Kuwait, Syria, Brazil, the Maldives, and the OIC Secretary General, covering regional security, economic partnerships, and international solidarity on Palestine. Furthermore, State Minister Kobir highlighted that the Prime Minister’s bilateral engagements build upon a fruitful meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, where they explored Bangladesh’s potential contributions to peace efforts in the Muslim world, while Dr. Zubaida Rahman participated in a high-profile side event addressing zero-waste management and green technology.
