Dhaka, 24 June 2026: A remarkable joint photo exhibition titled "Climate Change in Antarctica and the Southern Ocean Art Exhibition" was officially inaugurated today, Wednesday (24 June), at 2:00 PM at the Department of Oceanography, University of Dhaka. The event was organized by the Department of Oceanography, University of Dhaka, in collaboration with the Australian High Commission in Dhaka, to mark the 35th anniversary of the Madrid Protocol and under the mandate of the Cultural Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the two nations.
The Honorable Minister for Cultural Affairs of the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, Mr. Nitai Roy Chowdhury, attended the event as the Inaugurator and officially launched the exhibition through a joint ribbon-cutting ceremony.
In his inaugural address, the Minister Mr. Nitai Roy Chowdhury stated, This exhibition marks a beautiful milestone under the Cultural Memorandum of Understanding between Bangladesh and Australia. Our two nations share profound connections; our unique climate realities and evolving weather patterns foster deep-rooted cultural similarities. He also highlighted that over 22,000 Bangladeshi students are currently pursuing higher education in Australia, serving as the ultimate living bridge between the two societies, and expressed strong aspirations to see this bond grow even deeper.
Emphasizing the need for collective action against global climate threats, the Minister added, As we reflect on the powerful artwork highlighting climate change in Antarctica, it reminds us of our shared global responsibilities. Moving forward, we want to expand our bilateral partnership beyond cultural exchange into critical areas of technological cooperation to combat climate change together.
Her Excellency Susan Ryle, the Australian High Commissioner to Bangladesh, addressed the event, commending the bilateral partnership and the creative depiction of critical climate science.
Earlier, the event commenced with welcome remarks by the Pro-Vice Chancellor (Academic) of the University of Dhaka, Professor Dr. Abdus Salam. Following the official ribbon-cutting ceremony, the distinguished guests toured the exhibition. The event was well-attended by faculty members, researchers, students, and senior officials from diplomatic missions.
