Two British ministers, who arrived in Dhaka on Monday, have stated that the UK will assist Bangladesh in safeguarding the interests of the least developed countries (LDCs) at the important Copenhagen climate negotiations scheduled for December this year. The pledge was made by Douglas Alexander, UK minister for international development, and Ed Milliband, responsible for energy and climate change, a day before Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's departure to Geneva to attend the World Climate Conference-3. "We will...discuss how the UK can help Bangladesh in taking on a significant role in representing the interests of the Least Developed Countries (LDCs) at the crucial Copenhagen summit in December," Alaxander informed reporters upon arrival in Dhaka. The two British ministers proceeded to meet with Hasina to discuss climate change and development cooperation between their respective countries. Bangladesh currently holds the chair of the 50-member LDC Group, which comprises countries that are most susceptible to the adverse effects of climate change, largely due to emissions from developed countries. Wealthy countries, such as Britain, are seeking to form a partnership with the Least Developed Countries (LDCs) in order to encourage countries like China and India to commit to reducing their greenhouse gas emissions. A new international legal agreement to reduce carbon emissions will be discussed at the upcoming UN meeting in Copenhagen, replacing the current Kyoto Protocol which only imposed emission reduction requirements on developed nations. The Bali climate talks in 2007 acknowledged the need for major emerging economies to cut emissions. By joining forces with developed nations, the LDCs aim to put pressure on China and India, who are now considered significant contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. Bangladesh is considered to be highly susceptible to the impacts of climate change. The country's initiatives in adapting to and reducing risks from climate change are seen as valuable examples for other nations. Ed Milliband emphasized the significant challenges faced by Bangladesh and stated that the UK is dedicated to supporting the country in overcoming these challenges. During their visit, the ministers had dinner with foreign minister Dipu Moni at the state guest house Padma on Monday evening. The UK government launched the International Climate Champions Initiative in Bangladesh, allowing 15 Bangladeshi youths aged between 18 and 35 to participate in the Copenhagen summit. The project aims to raise awareness about climate change and its adaptation among the younger generation. Interested candidates must submit proposals on climate change, with the final selection being made by a panel led by Dr. Atiq Rahman of the Bangladesh Centre for Advanced Studies.