Dhaka: Disaster Management and Relief Adviser Farooq-e Azam today urged the United Nations (UN) for preparing a roadmap for the safe and sustainable repatriation of the forcibly displaced Myanmar citizens to their homeland. 'We want that UN would prepare an explicit roadmap for safe and sustainable repatriation of the Myanmar citizens, who took shelter in Bangladesh being displaced from Rakhain state in Myanmar', he said. The adviser made this appeal during a meeting with UN Secretary General's special envoy for Myanmar, Julie Bishop, at his secretariat office.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the adviser emphasized that while Bangladesh has provided refuge to the Rohingyas on humanitarian grounds, the ultimate resolution to the crisis lies in their safe return to Myanmar. He highlighted concerns about the prolonged stay of the displaced Rohingyas in Cox's Bazar, mentioning that it negatively impacts the area. He warned that if the repatriation process does not commence soon, it could worsen the situation and potentially lead to unrest beyond the immediate region.
During the meeting, various aspects of the displaced Rohingyas' situation were discussed. Farooq-e Azam informed the UN's special envoy about the Bhasanchar project, which offers opportunities for Rohingyas to engage in economic activities. He underscored the importance of this initiative, especially given the UN's provision of humanitarian assistance in Bhasanchar.
Refugee Relief and Repatriation Commissioner Mohammad Mizanur Rahman addressed security-related issues concerning the Rohingya camps during the meeting. Meanwhile, the UN special envoy informed the adviser that discussions and communications with both internal and external stakeholders of Myanmar, along with UN member states, are ongoing to initiate the repatriation process and create a conducive environment for the Rohingyas' return to Myanmar.
The UN special envoy also expressed satisfaction with the current management of the situation and commended all parties involved. The meeting was attended by Disaster Management and Relief Ministry's Additional Secretaries KM Abdul Wadud, ABM Shafiqul Haider, and other senior officials.