Rangamati: Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain today emphasized the importance of identifying and resolving challenges related to the implementation of the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) Accord through constructive discussions with all stakeholders. "We had a fruitful discussion, and I hope we will reach solutions through continued dialogue with all concerned," he stated after attending a meeting of the CHT Accord Implementation and Monitoring Committee at the CHT Development Board Rest House.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the meeting focused on various issues under the Accord, including land-related matters, as part of the government's renewed efforts to expedite the implementation process. "Today's meeting was my first one with the committee, and there is much to learn and understand," Hossain remarked.
CHT Affairs Adviser Supradeep Chakma highlighted the significance of the meeting as a step towards ensuring peace, security, and development in the region. He expressed the government's belief that collective and coordinated efforts by all parties in implementing the Accord will lead to lasting peace and development in the Hill Tracts.
Chakma noted that the committee will work on identifying challenges related to implementation and will make necessary recommendations to relevant ministries and departments. He mentioned the possibility of forming sub-committees, if needed, to advance the work.
Committee members indicated that the current interim government has prioritized implementing the Accord, with activities resuming following the committee's reconstitution. Leaders present at the meeting emphasized the need to prioritize the Accord's core provisions and resolve land issues while outlining future work plans.
During the meeting, it was decided that the committee would begin its activities immediately and ensure effective implementation of the Accord through regular monitoring and review. Key figures such as CHT Regional Council Chairman Jyotirindra Bodhipriya Larma (Santu Larma), CHT Taskforce Chairman Sudatta Chakma, and other officials participated in the discussions.