Agriculture Adviser Lieutenant General (retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury spoke virtually at the third BIMSTEC Agriculture Ministerial Meeting held in Kathmandu, Nepal, today in Dhaka. Photo : PID

DHAKA, April 9, 2025 (BSS) - Agriculture Adviser Lieutenant General (retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury has said that mutual cooperation can ensure food and nutrition security in the BIMSTEC region.

"Bangladesh is pledge-bound to fulfil the organization's objectives. There are huge opportunities for member states to collaborate and ensure food and nutrition security in the region," he said.

"For over two decades, BIMSTEC has been working for economic growth and sustainable development for its members," the adviser said while virtually joining the 3rd BIMSTEC Agriculture Ministerial Meeting held in Kathmandu, Nepal.

Ram Nath Adhikari, Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Development of Nepal, presided over the meeting, which was attended by agriculture ministers and senior officials from BIMSTEC member countries - India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Myanmar, Thailand and Sri Lanka.

The adviser highlighted the vulnerability of the region's 1.8 billion people to various challenges, including natural disasters.

"Agriculture is a primary source of production and employment, contributing to the prosperity of millions in the region," he said.

However, the sector faces numerous challenges, including climate change, unequal distribution, and trade deficits. To address these issues, the adviser stressed the need for enhanced coordination, sustainable teamwork, and collaborative research.

He also emphasized the significance of the Bay of Bengal as a vital marine resource, supporting the livelihoods, economies, and protein needs of millions.

Citing the detrimental impacts of pollution and climate change, he called upon member states to work together in tackling these pressing issues.

"To address these challenges, we must adapt by increasing investment and cooperation in research and innovation," he said, offering Bangladesh's readiness to lead the establishment of a permanent research centre dedicated to this cause.

He urged member states to strengthen coordination for establishing a BIMSTEC food reserve, in line with the policy proposed by the BIMSTEC Secretary General, and to promote collective self-reliance.

The adviser also called for enhanced trade in agricultural products among member states by removing tariff and non-tariff barriers.