An Opportunity To Brief Important Friends

FMs of China, Japan, Germany, Sweden to visit Rohingyas before heading towards Myanmar

- AKM Moinuddin

There is no denying that the people of Bangladesh and the government have not only opened their border, they have opened their homes and hearts for the Rohingyas, the most persecuted people on the earth. When we talk to Rohingyas who arrived here recently, they say they feel as if they are in their own homes. This, indeed, speaks more about the warm welcome they have received.

There is a long and complex history behind this crisis. But the international message is very clear that there must be a mechanism in place to ensure voluntarily, safe, dignified and sustainable repatriation and full implementation of the Kofi Annan Commission report.

This week is extremely important for Bangladesh as the Foreign Ministers of China, Japan, Germany and Sweden are coming to Bangladesh, likely on November 18-19. They will go to Cox’s Bazar to see the Rohingya situations on the ground and have better understanding. Federica Mogherini, high representative of the European Union for foreign affairs and security policy/vice-president of the European Commission, will arrive in the capital on November 19 to join other dignitaries from across the world.

Bangladesh will avail of the opportunity to brief China and other countries about the issue.

Foreign Minister AH Mahmood Ali is willing to stay back in Myanmar’s capital Nay Pyi Taw on November 22-23 following the ASEM Foreign Ministers’ meeting for negotiation and finalisation of a bilateral ‘arrangement’ on repatriation of the Rohingyas who crossed into Bangladesh amid persecution in their homeland.

He cannot visit Nay Pyi Taw on November 16-17 as desired by Myanmar ahead of the ASEM Foreign Ministers’ meeting scheduled for November 20-21.