By Camp Correspondent
March 2, 2025 – Bangladesh has sought the Philippines’ cooperation in ensuring a stronger role for ASEAN in resolving the Rohingya crisis and facilitating the safe repatriation of refugees currently living in Bangladesh.
During a meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Bangladesh’s Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain discussed the matter with the newly appointed Philippine Ambassador to Bangladesh, Nina Padilla Cainglet.
The discussion centered on Bangladesh’s ongoing efforts to engage ASEAN in pressuring Myanmar for a sustainable solution to the Rohingya displacement crisis.
Bangladesh Pushes for ASEAN’s Involvement
With over a million Rohingya refugees seeking shelter in Bangladesh, the country has been urging regional actors, particularly ASEAN, to take a firm stance on the repatriation issue.
However, ASEAN’s response has been largely symbolic, with little concrete action taken to ensure Myanmar’s accountability.
Foreign Adviser Touhid Hossain stressed that a lasting solution must come from regional cooperation, urging the Philippines to support Bangladesh’s diplomatic efforts.
“ASEAN has a responsibility to engage Myanmar directly and ensure that the Rohingya can return to their homeland with full rights and dignity,” he stated.
Philippines Open to Dialogue
Ambassador Cainglet acknowledged the significance of the crisis and expressed interest in working with Bangladesh to explore diplomatic avenues for a resolution.
She also mentioned that the Philippines is preparing for the Third Foreign Office Consultations (FOC), where discussions on bilateral cooperation and the Rohingya crisis could take place.
Beyond the issue of Rohingya repatriation, both sides discussed expanding bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, renewable energy, and education.
Rohingya Community Awaits Concrete Action
For the Rohingya, the call for ASEAN’s involvement is crucial. Over the years, ASEAN has refrained from directly confronting Myanmar’s military, allowing the crisis to persist.
Many Rohingya remain skeptical about whether regional diplomacy will bring any real change, as past efforts have failed to ensure their safe return.
Despite this, Bangladesh continues to push for stronger regional pressure, believing that sustained diplomatic engagement with ASEAN nations could help influence Myanmar’s stance on Rohingya repatriation.
As the situation remains uncertain, the Rohingya in refugee camps in Bangladesh continue to hope for a future where they can return to their homeland with dignity and security.
