The Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain today called for Canada's assistance in mobilizing enhanced international funding to address the Rohingya crisis, while stressing that the repatriation of Rohingyas to Myanmar remains the only sustainable solution to the protracted humanitarian situation.

He made the urge when a delegation comprising a Senate member and two senior Parliamentarians from the Parliament of Canada, along with executives from Human Concern International (HCI), called on him at the foreign ministry here, said a ministry's press release here. 

National Security Adviser and High Representative for the Rohingya Issue Dr Khalilur Rahman was also present during the meeting.

Discussions centered on the Rohingya crisis, including the Canadian delegation's first-hand experience from their recent visit to the Rohingya camps in Cox's Bazar.

The Foreign Adviser thanked Canada for its continued humanitarian assistance and longstanding support, expressing concern over the declining global attention and funding for the crisis. 

He noted that the prolonged stay of displaced Rohingyas in camps has created growing security challenges such as human trafficking, drug smuggling, and arms trade, affecting both camps and host communities.

The Canadian Parliamentarians, who serve on key Standing Committees on Foreign Affairs and Citizenship and Immigration, deeply appreciated Bangladesh's continued humanitarian support for the forcibly displaced Myanmar nationals and reaffirmed Canada's commitment to humanitarian assistance and a durable solution.

They also highlighted the importance of providing education and skills development opportunities for Rohingya children and youth, emphasizing that such initiatives could help reduce trafficking risks, foster positive social behaviour, and ultimately support the repatriation process.

Responding to this, Dr Khalilur Rahman said education initiatives require careful consideration due to potential long-term employment implications for local communities. 

He assured that consultations and coordination with relevant stakeholders and international partners are ongoing to address these concerns.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening the friendly and mutually beneficial partnership between Bangladesh and Canada.