Antalya:Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has called for increased diplomatic engagement from the United Kingdom to facilitate the safe and dignified repatriation of Rohingyas to Myanmar and to support Bangladesh's climate adaptation efforts.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Prime Minister made this appeal during a meeting with UK Foreign Secretary Edward Miliband on the sidelines of the 31st UN Climate Change Conference (COP31). The discussions also covered topics related to migration and the strengthening of bilateral economic ties.
During the meeting, Prime Minister Rahman emphasized the need for a more active diplomatic role by the UK to ensure the voluntary and dignified return of the Rohingyas, who have taken refuge in Bangladesh, to their homeland in Myanmar. He highlighted the importance of intensifying international diplomatic efforts to find a sustainable solution to the crisis.
Rahman pointed out that Bangladesh, being densely populated, has been under significant pressure due to hosting a large number of Rohingyas for nearly a decade, impacting the country's economy, society, culture, and environment. He also warned that the situation could affect local livelihood opportunities and pose a threat to regional security.
The meeting further stressed advancing cooperation in climate action, responding to humanitarian crises, migration, and economic partnerships, building on the existing bilateral relations between Bangladesh and the United Kingdom.
Prime Minister Rahman arrived in Antalya on Tuesday for a three-day official visit. He addressed the High-Level Segment of COP31, advocating for five urgent actions to protect climate-vulnerable countries. On the sidelines of the conference, he has held bilateral meetings with several world leaders, including Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Chinese Vice President Han Zheng, Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, discussing ways to strengthen ties, boost investment, and address climate change impacts. He has also engaged in courtesy calls with other international leaders and heads of organizations.