Switzerland, Bangladesh highlight joint action to protect rivers

Switzerland and Bangladesh need stronger cooperation across institutions, sectors and generations to protect the country’s rivers, Swiss Ambassador Reto Renggli said at the closing session of the Kollolini River Conference.

Reflecting on the longstanding connection between Switzerland and Bangladesh through water, Renggli highlighted Switzerland’s experience in restoring rivers and lakes that were once heavily polluted.

Healthy rivers are essential for healthy communities, and protecting them requires coordinated action involving institutions, different sectors and successive generations, the ambassador said.

The Swiss embassy in Dhaka posted at their official fan page on Friday.

The conference also placed particular emphasis on the creativity and energy of young participants. Renggli stressed that while dialogue is important, concrete action is even more important in addressing river-related challenges.

During a technical session, Head of Cooperation and Deputy Head of Mission Diepak Elmer said rivers cannot be protected by policies alone.

He underscored the importance of institutional coordination, community engagement and developing a sense among people that their rivers are worth protecting.

The conference concluded with a performance by Nodi Rocks, a local musical initiative supported by Switzerland that seeks to reconnect young people with Bangladesh’s rivers through music.

The initiative brought the conference to a close by highlighting the role of culture and youth engagement in building greater awareness about river conservation.