The Myanmar Ambassador to Bangladesh, U Kyaw Soe Moe, met with Foreign Secretary Ambassador Md. Jashim Uddin, ndc, at the Foreign Office this morning. During the meeting, the Foreign Secretary expressed deep concerns regarding the escalating situation in Myanmar, particularly in Rakhine State. He highlighted that this turmoil has intensified forced displacement, resulting in a recent influx of Rohingya people into Bangladesh, adding to the over 1.2 million already sheltered there.
The Foreign Secretary also raised security concerns along the border, noting stray mortar shells and shooting at Bangladeshi boats due to Myanmar’s internal conflicts. These incidents have heightened tensions among Bangladeshi border communities, impacting their daily lives. He also highlighted the instances of gunfire targeting Bangladeshi fishermen, stressing the urgency of preventing further such occurrences.
Reflecting on his recent visit to Cox’s Bazar, the Foreign Secretary cited the deterioration of law and order, the rise in criminal activities and violent clashes within the camps, increased drug smuggling and trafficking, all of which have placed substantial pressure on local resources and administration. He also pointed out the environmental and economic toll on host communities, underscoring the importance of an early repatriation process. The Foreign Secretary conveyed that the Rohingya in the camps strongly desire to return to Myanmar.
The Myanmar Ambassador acknowledged the need for a feasible solution to the displacement crisis, affirming on the need for their repatriation. Both sides also discussed the recent UNDP forecast of a potential famine in Rakhine, with the Foreign Secretary urging Myanmar to take immediate action to address this concern in order to prevent further displacement towards Bangladesh.