China has pledged to support potential negotiations between Bangladesh and Myanmar aimed at ensuring the safe, voluntary, and dignified repatriation of Rohingya refugees currently sheltered in Bangladesh. The announcement was made by Prime Ministerial Adviser and Spokesperson Mahadi Amin following talks in Beijing between Bangladesh Prime Minister Tareque Rahman and Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Speaking at a press conference on Friday (June 26), Mahadi Amin said Bangladesh has consistently maintained that the only sustainable solution to the Rohingya crisis is the refugees’ voluntary, safe, and dignified return to Myanmar.
According to him, China conveyed that whenever Bangladesh is ready to initiate discussions with Myanmar on the issue, Beijing would be prepared to facilitate the dialogue by providing the necessary diplomatic support and mediation.
Mahadi Amin also noted that the current government is interested in building on the experience of previous repatriation efforts undertaken during the administrations of President Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, with the aim of advancing effective negotiations once again.
At the briefing, Foreign Affairs Adviser Humayun Kabir said the Rohingya crisis has deepened over the years due to prolonged policy shortcomings and governance failures, making it a significant national security concern for Bangladesh.
He added that Bangladesh would continue to prioritize its own diplomatic initiatives while working with China’s support to pursue meaningful dialogue with the Myanmar government to advance the repatriation process.
Bangladesh also reiterated that, in accordance with international law and humanitarian principles, the safe and dignified return of the Rohingya to their homeland remains the only acceptable and lasting solution to the crisis.
Source: Prime Minister’s Office.