Staff Correspondent
Foreign Adviser Md. Touhid Hossain expressed deep concern over the recent influx of more than 40,000
Rohnigyas into Bangladesh fleeing conflict in the Myanmar’s bordering states.
He raised the concern while Myanmar Ambassador to Bangladesh U Kyaw Soe Moe paid a maiden call
on him at the foreign ministry here, an official press release said.
During the talks, the foreign adviser emphasized the urgency of a safe and sustainable repatriation
process for the displaced Rohingya population, highlighting the importance of peace and stability in
Myanmar.
"Regional stability is crucial for both the nations," he said, calling for increased efforts to address the
ongoing humanitarian crisis.
The foreign adviser also expressed the hope that the Myanmar government and key stakeholders would
engage in constructive dialogue to resolve the situation.
He also raised concern over the security threats at the border, including a rise in human trafficking
linked to the influx of displaced people.
Ambassador Moe acknowledged the challenges posed by the ongoing conflict in Myanmar, explaining
that repatriation efforts have been delayed due to a ceasefire breakdown by the Arakan Army in
November 2023.
The envoy 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.
The foreign adviser also underscored the need for both nations to prioritize resolving outstanding
bilateral issues, stressing Bangladesh’s commitment to enhancing regional cooperation with Southeast
Asian countries, where Myanmar serves as a key gateway.
He urged Myanmar’s support for Bangladesh’s bid to gain ASEAN Sectoral Dialogue Partner status.
Besides, both sides discussed bolstering bilateral trade, increasing people-to-people contact, and
resuming direct flights between Dhaka and Yangon.
They also stressed the importance on finalizing the coastal shipping agreement currently under
negotiation between the two countries.
