Bangladesh joins International Big Cat Alliance

The cabinet has approved a proposal to join the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA).

Formed in 2023, the primary objective of this global alliance is to play a role in conserving large cat species, including tigers, lions, leopards, snow leopards, pumas, jaguars, and cheetahs.

Currently, 24 UN member states are part of this alliance.

The proposal was approved yesterday during the eighth cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.

According to the Cabinet Division, Bangladesh decided to join this initiative to ensure the protection of the Sundarbans -- one of the primary habitats of the Royal Bengal Tiger -- prevent illegal wildlife poaching and trafficking, and facilitate technical cooperation and knowledge sharing among member countries.

Meanwhile, the cabinet also approved a framework agreement titled, "Transfer of Defense Equipment and Technology", to elevate military and technical cooperation between Bangladesh and Japan to a new level.