Rohingya crisis putting pressure on Bangladesh's economy: State Minister

The Rohingya crisis has created pressure on Bangladesh's economy, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed has said . Speaking to journalists after a meeting with law enforcement, NGO and INGO officials at the office of the Refugee Relief and Repatriation Commissioner (RRRC) in Cox's Bazar on Wednesday afternoon, she said the crisis has placed significant pressure on both the economy and the population of Bangladesh. Despite this, Bangladesh continues to shelter this population on humanitarian grounds .

The state minister noted that two successful Rohingya repatriation processes were completed during the eras of Ziaur Rahman and Khaleda Zia . She expressed concern that the Rohingya crisis is losing importance on the international stage due to various global conflicts, emphasising that the problem is not just Bangladesh's but a major humanitarian crisis for the world .

Regarding the current situation, she said the internal conditions in Myanmar are extremely fragile. However, the government is determined to repatriate the Rohingyas to their homeland by ensuring their honour, dignity and security. "We want them to return to their own country safely and regain their fundamental rights," she said .

The state minister said communication with relevant parties, including the Myanmar government and the Arakan Army, is ongoing . Additionally, efforts are being made to resolve the crisis through coordinated initiatives with China, India, ASEAN member countries, the Muslim world and Western nations.

Before the meeting, a five-member delegation led by the state minister arrived in Cox's Bazar in the morning and visited various Rohingya camps in Ukhia, including a WFP food distribution centre, an LPG distribution centre, an educational institution in Camp 18, the MSF hospital in 18 West, and the UNIQLO plant in Kutupalong.