Help ensure safe Rohingya repatriation

Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has asked Japan’s special envoy for national reconciliation in Myanmar, Yohei Sasakawa, to help make Rohingya repatriation safe, voluntary and dignified.

Sasakawa, who also chairs the Nippon Foundation, made a courtesy call on Rahman at the prime minister’s office in Bangladesh’s secretariat. He acknowledged the pressure the Rohingya crisis has placed on Bangladesh and referred to grants and humanitarian assistance provided by Japan to support the refugees.

Rahman described the crisis as one of Bangladesh’s biggest challenges and thanked Japan for standing with the country. He said Bangladesh was ready to cooperate with the rehabilitation of Rohingyas in Myanmar after their return.

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The Rohingya crisis is one of Bangladesh’s biggest challenges.

Sasakawa said he had discussed the issue with Myanmar’s president and believed the Myanmar government was sincere about resolving the crisis. But he also said the complex situation in Rakhine State meant progress on repatriation would take time. He promised to make his utmost efforts to help resolve the crisis.

The meeting highlighted the need for stronger multilateral initiatives and international cooperation, rather than relying only on bilateral efforts. Rahman also sought Sasakawa’s assistance in establishing a vaccine production centre in Bangladesh. The envoy said he would work on the matter sincerely. Rahman added that Bangladesh wanted to attract Japanese investment and was working to create an investment-friendly environment.

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The complex situation in Rakhine State means progress on Rohingya repatriation will take time.