Scale up Rohingya repatriation efforts

Bangladesh has urged the UN to scale up its programme and create conducive conditions in the Rakhine State of Myanmar for Rohingya repatriation, arguing that the efforts on Bangladesh's side alone will not bring about any lasting solution to the problem.

"Actions and programmes are needed in Myanmar, to create the conditions conducive for the return of this population, in dignity, to their homes. And that is the most desired durable solution and the aspiration of the Rohingyas themselves," said Bangladesh's Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Rabab Fatima.

She was addressing the UN General Assembly in New York yesterday following the briefing by Dr Noeleen Heyzer, the Special Envoy of the UN Secretary General on Myanmar.

Besides, at the fifth meeting of the Joint Working Group (JWG) on the repatriation of Rohingyas held virtually yesterday, Bangladesh also stressed on ensuring security, livelihood and wellbeing of the returnees.

Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen led Bangladesh side and Myanmar's Foreign Ministry Permanent Secretary U Chan Aye led the Myanmar side in the meeting.

"Both sides agreed to work on addressing verification related problems and holding regular meetings of the Joint Working Group (JWG) and Technical Working Group for early commencement of repatriation," according to a statement of the foreign ministry.