Repatriation only solution to Rohingya crisis: Shama Obaed tells UN agency

State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam on Wednesday reminded the UN that repatriation of Rohingyas to Myanmar is the only viable solution to the prolonged refugee crisis.

She made the remarks when UNHCR Country Representative Ivo Freijsen met her at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs office in the Secretariat, according to a statement released by the ministry on its official facebook page.

Bangladesh will continue to work with UNHCR and other partners to identify practical pathways for repatriation while sustaining humanitarian assistance in both Bhasan Char and Coxs Bazar, Shama Obaed told the UNHCR official.

The state minister also appreciated UNHCR’s continued support for forcibly displaced Rohingyas, particularly for its lead role under the Rohingya Response Plan.

Both sides agreed to collaborate in keeping the international community’s attention focused on this issue of critical importance.

In view of existing funding shortfalls, the State Minister called upon UNHCR to maintain its ongoing efforts to address the most pressing humanitarian needs, including food, medicine, water and sanitation and education under the Joint Response Plan (JRP).

Freijsen expressed appreciation for Bangladesh’s generosity in hosting a large number of Rohingyas over the years and reaffirmed UNHCR’s steadfast commitment to supporting Bangladesh in this humanitarian crisis.