Bangladesh has ramped up its diplomatic efforts to resolve the protracted Rohingya crisis, with Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud highlighting a reinvigorated push to repatriate the over one million Rohingya refugees currently sheltering in Cox’s Bazar and Bhasan Char.
During a recent press briefing, Minister Mahmud emphasized that the issue has been brought to the forefront of the international agenda once again, with strong backing from key partners including China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). “We are making renewed efforts through diplomatic channels. We have already communicated our concerns to Myanmar and international partners,” he stated.
The minister revealed that Bangladesh has intensified dialogue with Myanmar’s authorities and international stakeholders to create conducive conditions for a safe, voluntary, and dignified return of the Rohingya. He noted that China is playing a key mediating role, reflecting Beijing’s strategic interest in ensuring regional stability.
This diplomatic momentum comes amid growing concerns over security risks in the camps and the burden on Bangladesh’s resources, which have been stretched thin since the 2017 mass influx of Rohingya fleeing military persecution in Myanmar’s Rakhine State.
Minister Mahmud reiterated Bangladesh’s consistent stance that the only sustainable solution lies in the repatriation of the Rohingya to their homeland with full rights and safety guarantees. He urged the international community to maintain pressure on Myanmar’s junta and support Bangladesh’s humanitarian efforts.
Observers view Dhaka’s renewed initiative as a significant move to break the long-standing deadlock, though challenges remain especially with Myanmar’s internal political turmoil and continued violence in Rakhine State.
Despite these complexities, the foreign minister expressed cautious optimism, stating, “We believe sustained international engagement can help pave the way for an eventual resolution.”
As the diplomatic campaign gains momentum, all eyes will be on how Myanmar and international actors respond to this fresh call for accountability, justice, and peace for the Rohingya people.
