World Refugee Day: US says Bangladesh beacon of hope, inspiration

As the world is set to observe this year's World Refugee Day on June 20, the United States says Bangladesh stands out as a beacon of hope and inspiration.

"The United States stands proudly with Bangladesh to support a policy of protection and accountability," said US Ambassador in Dhaka Marcia Bernicat, reports UNB.

Ahead of the World Refugee Day, the US envoy said they are working with their allies and partners to explore all options to help ensure that there will be justice for victims and that those responsible for atrocities and other human rights violations will face appropriate consequences.

Earlier on June 7, the US welcomed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) by UNHCR, UNDP, and the Myanmar government to support the creation of conditions conducive to the voluntary, safe, dignified, and sustainable return of Rohingya refugees to Myanmar, whether to their places of origin or of their choosing.

"This is a positive step. We see this MoU as a confidence-building measure that, if effectively implemented, could allow much-needed humanitarian assistance to reach all affected communities and assist Burma in creating the necessary conditions for voluntary return and to support recovery and resilience-based development for the benefit of all communities living in Rakhine State," said Heather Nauert, US Department of State Spokesperson, in a statement.

The US encouraged the Myanmar government to fulfil its commitment to work with UNHCR and UNDP to implement the recommendations of the Kofi Annan-led Advisory Commission on Rakhine State.