Citing the recent engagements between Myanmar and Bangladesh, Foreign Minister AH Mahmood Ali on Wednesday expressed hope that the European Union will continue their persuasion with Myanmar until the Rohingyas return to their homeland in safety, security and dignity.
The Foreign Minister sought sustained political support of the EU so that a sustainable solution to this Rohingya problem could be forged in light of the recommendations of the Kofi Annan Commission.
The issue came up for discussion when Christos Stylianides, European Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management, met him at State Guesthouse Padma.
The European Commissioner has just returned from Cox’s Bazar after visiting the camps where the forcibly displaced Myanmar nationals have been taking shelter.
He thanked the government and the people of Bangladesh for giving shelter to the distressed Rohingyas of Myanmar and deeply appreciated Bangladesh’s humanity and generosity. Christos Stylianides said he is visiting Bangladesh to send a strong message that the EU stands with Bangladesh in this difficult time.
He has also informed the Foreign Minister about the recent initiatives of the EU to cover the increasing humanitarian needs of the Rohingays.
Mahmood Ali briefed him about the current situation regarding the influx of Rohingyas, saying over one million Rohingyas are now living in Bangladesh.
He also mentioned that the presence of this huge number of forcibly displaced Myanmar nationals has created massive socio-economic and environmental challenge for Bangladesh.
