Bangladesh Foreign Minister pledges 20,000 trees during Independence Day visit

Bangladesh’s Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman has donated 10 saplings to the Maldives and pledged an additional 20,000 trees to the Five Million Tree Programme. 

A tree-planting ceremony was held at Lonuziyaaraiy Park in Henveiru, Male’ City, on Sunday morning as part of the events marking the 61st anniversary of Maldives’ independence. The ceremony was included in Dr Rahman’s official visit to join the Independence Day celebrations. 

Dr Rahman presented 10 saplings to the Government of Maldives as a symbol of the long-standing friendship between the two countries. He announced that Bangladesh would contribute a further 20,000 trees to support the Five Million Tree Programme. 

The Foreign Ministry said the contribution reflects the strengthening of Maldives–Bangladesh cooperation in environmental protection and climate resilience. 

FM @IruthishamAdam and Foreign Minister of Bangladesh Dr. Khalilur Rahman jointly planted trees this evening contributing to the Five Million Trees Programme inaugurated by His Excellency President Dr.@MMuizzu reflecting shared commitment to a sustainable future. @BDMOFA pic.twitter.com/iGtkJShqaw

— Ministry of Foreign Affairs ???????? (@MoFAmv) July 26, 2026

Speaking at the ceremony, Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam and Environment Minister Ali Shareef highlighted the importance of the Five Million Tree Programme, launched by the government on 5 June 2024, in enhancing biodiversity and long-term environmental sustainability. 

Both ministers expressed appreciation to Dr Rahman and the Government of Bangladesh for the donation of 10 saplings and the additional 20,000 trees. 

Planting five million trees is a presidential pledge announced by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu at the COP28 Summit held in Dubai from 30 November to 13 December 2023. 

More than one million trees have been planted so far under the programme.