Foreign Secy, UNHCR Discuss Rohingya Crisis Solutions

Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin on Thursday reiterated that the repatriation of Rohingyas to Myanmar remains the only viable solution to the ongoing crisis, highlighting the mounting socio-economic and security pressures on host communities in Cox’s Bazar.

During a farewell meeting with the outgoing UNHCR Representative in Bangladesh, Sumbul Rizvi, the Foreign Secretary noted that the prolonged stay of displaced Rohingyas has led to increased challenges, including a rise in drug smuggling and human trafficking.

He also recalled the recent visits by the UN Secretary-General and the UN High Commissioner for Refugees to the Rohingya camps, underscoring the urgency for durable solutions.

The Foreign Secretary commended Rizvi for her successful tenure and for UNHCR’s continued humanitarian efforts in Bangladesh. In response, Rizvi expressed her appreciation for the Government of Bangladesh’s cooperation and reaffirmed UNHCR’s commitment to supporting the Rohingya response.

Both sides also exchanged views on the evolving situation in Myanmar’s Rakhine State and discussed the upcoming High-Level Conference on the Rohingya Crisis.

The meeting concluded with the Foreign Secretary extending best wishes to Rizvi for her future endeavors.