Dhaka seeks clear roadmap from UN for Rohingya repatriation

Bangladesh has sought a clear roadmap from the United Nations for accelerating repatriation of Rohingya people to Myanmar.

“We provided shelter to the Rohingyas on humanitarian ground; however, the solution to the crisis lies in their safe and sustainable repatriation to Myanmar, which couldn’t even be commenced in the last four years. Now the UN needs to provide us with a clear roadmap in this regard,” said Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen.

He made the call at a bilateral meeting with Christine S Burgener, special envoy of the secretary general on Myanmar, at the Bangladesh Permanent Mission in New York on Wednesday.

Citing several disadvantages for the presence of Rohingyas in Cox’s Bazar for long-time, Momen said it will create instability not only in Cox’s Bazar, but also in the entire arena and its outsides if the Rohingya repatriation is not begun immediately.

During the meeting, Momen also informed Burgener about the Rohingyas relocation to Bhasan Char and highly appreciated the UN’s role for its uninterrupted humanitarian supports to them.

Momen also requested her to visit Bhasan Char after improvement of the coronavirus situation.

Besides, Burgener told Momen that the UN is engaged in hatching its efforts through holding talks with UN’s member countries and stockholders to create a conducive atmosphere for ensuring immediate repatriation of the Rohingyas.

She also expressed her eagerness to visit Bhasan Char.