Singapore for quick Rohingya repatriation

Visiting Singaporean Foreign Minister Dr Vivian Balakrishnan yesterday underscored the need for speedy repatriation of Rohingya refugees from Bangladesh.

Dr Balakrishnan made the remarks when she called on Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina at Gono Bhaban in the morning.

After the meeting, Prime Minister's Press Secretary Ihsanul Karim briefed reporters.

Dr Balakrishnan said Singapore wants to see quick repatriation of the Rohingyas from Bangladesh, as their prolonged stay could lead them to terrorism.

He informed the PM that the Myanmar government has invited Asean countries to visit Rakhaine State, to see the condition of Rohingyas there.

During the meeting, Sheikh Hasina termed the influx of over 11 lakh Rohingyas into Bangladesh a big burden for the country. She also praised the international community for their assistance in rehabilitation of the Rohingyas.

Mentioning that her government has allocated lands for Singaporean investors in special economic zones, the PM urged Singaporean entrepreneurs to invest in larger volumes in the zones.

Hasina also called upon the Singapore government to dredge rivers in Bangladesh and take back the sand free of cost.

Principal Coordinator on SDG Affairs Abul Kalam Azad, PMO Secretary Sajjadul Hassan, Bangladesh High Commissioner to Singapore Mostafizur Rahman and Singapore High Commissioner in Dhaka Derek Loh Eu-Tse were present on the occasion.