Dhaka:State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam today highlighted the necessity of maintaining international focus on the Rohingya crisis, describing it as a significant challenge for Bangladesh.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Shama Obaed made these remarks while addressing a national policy dialogue at the CIRDAP auditorium. The event, organized by Neeti Gobeshona Kendro, was titled "A Sustainable Approach to the Resolution of the Rohingya Crisis: Outline of a National Strategy and External Contribution."
Shama Obaed stressed that the Rohingya situation has evolved into a security concern for Bangladesh, advocating for meaningful international engagement to address it. She urged the international community to interact constructively with Myanmar to facilitate the safe and dignified return of the Rohingyas. She reaffirmed Bangladesh's vocal stance on the crisis and the need for repatriation under conditions that uphold the dignity of the Rohingyas.
The state minister further emphasized the importance of forging a national political consensus to tackle the ongoing crisis. Bangladesh currently hosts over 1.3 million Rohingyas, with their increasing numbers exerting pressure on local communities and the nation's economy. The dialogue aimed at fostering constructive engagement among various stakeholders, including policymakers, diplomats, and representatives of the Rohingya community, to develop a sustainable and comprehensive approach to the crisis.
Participants at the dialogue discussed the formulation of a national strategic framework, political consensus building, diplomatic engagement, and the role of international and external stakeholders. The significance of sustained policy engagement and the active participation of the Rohingya community in seeking a durable solution to the crisis was also underscored.