Dhaka voices 'deep concern' over recent influx of 40,000 Rohingyas

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain on Wednesday expressed “deep concern” over the recent influx of more than 40,000 Myanmar nationals into Bangladesh fleeing conflict in the bordering states.

“Regional stability is crucial for both the nations,” the Adviser emphasized when Ambassador of Myanmar to Bangladesh Kyaw Soe Moe paid a maiden call on the Foreign Adviser at the latter's office, UNB reports. 

The Foreign Adviser reiterated the need for the safe and sustainable repatriation of the displaced Rohingya population, underscoring the importance of peace and stability in Myanmar.

During the meeting, they discussed a range of bilateral issues including sustainable repatriation of Rohingya people.

Hossain stressed that Bangladesh and Myanmar, being two close neighbours, have certain challenges in the bilateral relations that need to be resolved on a priority basis.

The Myanmar Ambassador acknowledged the difficulties caused by the conflict, explaining that efforts toward the repatriation of displaced persons had been delayed due to the ceasefire breakdown by the Arakan Army in November 2023.

The Foreign Adviser expressed hope that the Myanmar government and other key players would soon engage in constructive dialogue to address the crisis. He highlighted the security concerns stemming from the volatile border situation such as rise in human trafficking.

Adviser Hossain reaffirmed Bangladesh’s commitment to enhancing regional cooperation with South-East Asian Countries, where Myanmar is a vital gateway. He sought Myanmar’s support for Bangladesh’s bid to become a part of ASEAN’s Sectoral Dialogue.

They also discussed strengthening bilateral trade, increasing people-to-people contact, and the potential resumption of direct flights between Dhaka and Yangon.

They emphasized finalizing the coastal shipping agreement currently under negotiation between the two countries.

Ambassador Kyaw Soe Moe conveyed his government’s gratitude to Bangladesh for providing shelter, food, and medical support to Myanmar troops, as well as facilitating their repatriation after they had recently crossed into Bangladesh amidst the ongoing conflict in Rakhine.