Dhaka:Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has reiterated Bangladesh's commitment to ensuring the safe, voluntary, and sustainable repatriation of Rohingya refugees to Myanmar.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Home Minister highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen regional and international diplomatic measures to facilitate the Rohingyas' return. He presented these remarks at a seminar titled 'Rohingya Crisis Way Forward - Towards Sustainable Repatriation and a Durable Regional Solution', held at the Radisson Blu Water Garden in Dhaka.
Md. Ismail Zabiullah, Adviser to the Prime Minister on the Ministry of Public Administration, attended the event as a special guest. The seminar was chaired by FSDS Chairman Major General (retd) Fazle Elahi Akbar.
The Home Minister emphasized that Bangladesh's solo initiatives are insufficient for sustainable repatriation. He called for a strategic regional alliance, involving China, ASEAN, the United Nations, Japan, and other stakeholders. He mentioned that the Prime Minister's upcoming visit to Japan would involve discussions on accelerating the repatriation process.
Addressing the geopolitical shifts in Myanmar’s Rakhine State, he noted that the Arakan Army controls significant territory there. Bangladesh is exploring solutions through diplomatic and informal channels, with peaceful repatriation as the primary goal.
Md. Ismail Zabiullah underscored the importance of strategic diplomacy over crisis management, advocating for sustainable repatriation and an integrated national strategy. He stressed the protection of Rohingya humanitarian rights and the need for international support and pressure on Myanmar.
The Home Minister also noted that Bangladesh's election to the Presidency of the United Nations General Assembly offers a platform to advocate for Rohingya repatriation. He expressed hope that cooperation with international and regional partners could expedite a sustainable solution.
The seminar was attended by diplomats, international organization representatives, academics, and media personnel.