"We have already been facing various problems such as salinity, desertification and arsenic contamination in groundwater in vast areas of the country mainly because of scarcity of water in the dry season, caused by withdrawal of water by a neighbouring country," he said during a meeting with Director General of Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) Jacques Diouf.

Salinity in Sundarbans and many other areas is posing a threat to biodiversity and forest, the minister said, adding that the climate change is also boosting flood and drought.

Tariqul Islam also expressed concern over a massive plan of river-linking in the neighbouring country as it might further damage the environment of Bangladesh.

The FAO DG said his organisation would try to help ensure transboundary flow of water for the benefit of nations.

He suggested forming an international technical body to assess the impacts of water control and recommend measures for the best use of water resources.

Jacques Diouf also called for constructive dialogue among the nations for proper and maximum utilisation of water resources.

He assured that the FAO would work with Bangladesh and other nations to help protect environment, boost agriculture and preserve biodiversity.

The FAO chief also discussed the FAO-assisted programmes in the environment and forestry sectors.

Lauding the FAO assistance in Bangladesh, the minister listed various steps taken for protection of environment and biodiversity.

He said the environment ministry has taken up a massive project to plant one crore coconut saplings in the coastal belt to save the areas from natural calamities and about 72 lakh saplings have already been planted.

The government has a plan to set up an International Institute on Medicinal Plant in the country, Tariqul said and sought cooperation from the FAO in this regard.

He said the government has introduced participatory forestation programme to increase forestry in the country as well as alleviate poverty. Under this programme, Tk 29 crore has been disbursed among the participants this year.

Quoting a World Bank report, the minister said the level of pollution in the capital city has declined drastically following a ban imposed on two-stroke vehicles.

The government also banned harmful chemical pesticides and fertilisers, he added. He also mentioned steps to recover and protect water bodies and ensure safe habitat for animals.

Tariqul said the environment ministry has finalised the National Biodiversity Strategy Action Plan and Bio-Safety Guidelines.

State Minister for Environment Jafrul Islam Chowdhury, Secretary Dr Shoaib Ahmed and FAO Country Director Bui Thi Lan were present at the meeting.