GRI (Global Reporting Initiative), Netherlands, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) to provide training to local stakeholders so that listed companies follow the standards of sustainability reporting.
The MoU was signed at a city hotel on Sunday in presence of the representatives of the premier bourse, GRI, and Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC).
GRI is an independent international organisation that has pioneered sustainability reporting since 1997. GRI was founded in Boston in 1997.
The GRI Sustainability Reporting Standards (GRI Standards) are the first and most widely adopted global standards for sustainability reporting.
The practice of disclosing sustainability information inspires accountability, helps identify and manage risks, and enables organisations to seize new opportunities.
Officials at the DSE said the objective of signing the MoU is to enter into a collaboration of building commitment and awareness to provide guidance to listed companies on ESG (Environment, Social and Governance) disclosures in Bangladesh.
Dr. Swapan Kumar Bala, a commissioner of the securities regulator, was the chief guest of the programme, attended by DSE managing director KAM Majedur Rahman, Chief Financial Officer Abdul Matin Patwary, Assistant General Manager Md. Moniruzzaman Emon and two programme coordinators of GRI -- Pallavi Atre and Rubina Sen.
Dr. Swapan Kumar Bala said the GRI would provide training to the stakeholders so that all listed companies follow the standard of sustainability reporting.
"Sustainability reporting includes transparency of information, better decision making and trust. The GRI will provide training on preparing sustainability reporting by the listed companies," he said.
Six listed companies have already followed the standard of sustainability reporting. The companies are Prime Bank Limited, Eastern Bank Limited, Mutual Trust Bank Limited, Bank Asia, Janata Bank Limited and IDLC Finance Limited.
After signing the agreement, a workshop was held on corporate transparency and sustainability reporting of the listed companies.
The DSE invited around 50 listed companies and the representatives from some 30 listed companies attended the workshop, jointly organised by the DSE and GRI.
