Jahangir Khan Babu from Antalya, Turkey 

The Bangladesh Pavilion drew an unusually vibrant and packed crowd on the opening day of the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) in Antalya, Turkey  marking a notable shift from previous summits where the national stall saw limited visitor engagement.

Led by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), Bangladesh introduced several first-time features in the COP Blue Zone aimed at boosting public engagement, innovation, and international visibility.

 Formally inaugurated by Environment Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo and State Minister Dr. Shaikh Faridul Islam, the pavilion showcases interactive wall designs, souvenir distribution, and immersive virtual reality (VR) experiences depicting the challenges faced by aid workers in flood-hit communities alongside the ecological contrast between Cox's Bazar's natural landscape and rising pollution.

Centered on highlighting Bangladesh's national climate strategies, adaptation plans, and resilience initiatives, the pavilion also seeks to position the country as a viable destination for international investment in climate adaptation, environmental protection, and sustainable development.

For the first time, the pavilion secured private-sector backing from MGH Group and Eastern Bank PLC, which partnered to support beautification, visitor engagement, souvenir distribution, and VR installations. Additionally, the ministry integrated youth-led organizations—including Footsteps, Go UP Foundation, and Youth4NDCs—into the planning, decision-making, and daily management of the pavilion, bringing fresh energy to visitor outreach.

In another historic milestone, Bangladesh is operating two national pavilions at COP31 simultaneously. Along with the MoEFCC-led Blue Zone pavilion, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is hosting a dedicated pavilion in the Green Zone to showcase traditional and innovative eco-friendly jute products to a global audience.