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Visiting United Nations Secretary- General Antonio Guterres assures that the UN stands ready to assist in fostering peace, national dialog, trust and healing as Bangladesh is poised for transition after a changeover.
He also expresses the UN's readiness and to be Bangladesh's steadfast partner, and to work alongside ''the government and the people of Bangladesh to help build a sustainable, equitable future for all''. "I recognise the people's hope for the future of greater democracy, justice and prosperity," Mr Guterres told a press briefing Saturday after his meeting with the political leaders and civil -society members.
"I'm particularly pleased to be in Bangladesh at this important moment in your national journey, as the country is undergoing a significant transition under the leadership of chief adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus," the UN chief said in the light of his firsthand view of the country's current milieus.
"This is a pivotal moment for Bangladesh and international community must play its part in supporting your efforts towards a just, inclusive and prosperous future as the country undergoes important reforms and transitions," said the UN Secretary-General, who arrived here Thursday.
Responding to a question he said that dialogue with the Arakan Army is crucial to resolving the Rohingya crisis as it would help narrow the gap between the Rakhine and the Rohingya living the Rakhine State, their homeland.
Replying to another question, Mr Guterres said the possibility of opening a humanitarian channel to Myanmar through Bangladesh to save distressed people of Myanmar from a famine-like situation was discussed.
To another query he said that though sanctions are a tool to put pressure, often it becomes impossible as it requires the approval from the security council.
However, he suggests the international community should continue to put pressure on Myanmar for a lasting solution to the Rohingya crisis.
Lauding Bangladesh for its extraordinary generosity in sheltering the Rohingyas, he said, "Bangladesh has demonstrated solidarity and human dignity, often at significant social, environmental and economic costs, by offering sanctuary to over a million refugees fleeing violence and persecution."
He urges the international community to take greater responsibility and provide the necessary financial and political support for the refugees, reminding that the drastic cut in aid might create terrible consequence, 'starting with a drastic reduction in food ratios, that would be an unmitigated disaster'.
"I strongly appeal to the international community to allow us to avoid this tragedy, more funding is absolutely essential to guarantee the minimum support to the growing population in Bangladesh and the United Nations is fully committed to working with Bangladesh and others in finding a lasting solution to the Rohingya crisis that enables their safe, voluntary, dignified and sustainable return to Myanmar."
The UN chief also calls on all parties in Myanmar to "exercise maximum restraints, prioritize the protection of civilians in accordance with international humanitarian law".
He sends his heartfelt greetings to Muslims across Bangladesh and around the world, observing the holy month of Ramadan which is a "time of reflection, spiritual renewal and unity".
"Every year I undertake a solidarity visit and spend time with Muslim communities living in evil circumstances, to observe the fast with them and to up shine a global spotlight on their minds".
About his visit to Bangladesh he said, "This year, I decided to come to Bangladesh to express my solidarity with rowing the refugees and the Bangladeshi people that host them, fasting and having an Iftar, together with the Bangladesh communities and the Rohingya communities are the proof of my deep respect for the religion and the culture they represent. And I had an extremely moving visit to Cox bazaar yesterday".
Praising Bangladeshi peacekeepers in the UN he said, "Ramadan reminds us of universal values that correct humanity, compassion, empathy and generosity, and Bangladesh is a living symbol of these values through your commitment to peace, development and humanitarian relief, Bangladesh is among the largest contributors United Nations peacekeeping, and I want to pay tribute to the sacrifices and dedication of Bangladesh peacekeepers who serve in some of the most difficult and dangerous environments in the world.
"As we come together in the sacred month of Ramadan, it is more important than ever to focus on solidarity and shared humanity. In this period, we will continue standing with the people of Bangladesh as you navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead."
Foreign Adviser of the interim government Towhid Hossain, who accompanied the secretary-general in the briefing, said the visit by Mr Guterres emphasised his commitment to a peaceful, democratic Bangladesh and solidarity with the Rohingya people.
"His visit would more than counterweigh the misinformation and disinformation campaign and the attempts to destabilise Bangladesh," the foreign adviser told the reporters.
The UN Secretary- General also talked to media during the briefing.
Adviser Hossain said that Gutress appreciated the complexities of the reform process for a free and fair election and a "real transformation" of Bangladesh. The UN chief executive has promised the UN's total commitment to the reform process under the leadership of Chief Adviser Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus, he said.
The adviser said that the UN Secretary-General's assurance of support would help Bangladesh in its successful reform process and its transition to democracy in line with the common aspiration of the people.
To understand the people's aspirations for the future of Bangladesh, Hossain said that the secretary- general graced three meetings with youth, civil societies, and members of the Reform Commissions.
The visit underscored the Rohingya's desire for a dignified life in their ancestral land and called for international support, said the adviser.
He mentioned that during discussions, the Secretary -General also pledged support for Bangladesh's interim government and reform process, countering disinformation campaigns against the country.
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