by Hafizur Rahman
Dhaka, March 25, 2026
The State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh, Shama Obaed Islam, has said that the return of Rohingya refugees to Myanmar remains the only long term solution to the ongoing crisis. She made the remarks during a meeting with UNHCR Country Representative Ivo Freijsen at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Dhaka.
She said that Bangladesh will continue to work with international partners to support the safe and voluntary return of Rohingya people to their homeland. She also reaffirmed that the country will maintain its support for refugees until a permanent solution is achieved.
The minister acknowledged the role of UNHCR in assisting Rohingya refugees, particularly through the Rohingya Response Plan, and expressed appreciation for its continued support.
She added that Bangladesh will keep engaging with UNHCR and other organizations to explore practical pathways for repatriation, while continuing humanitarian assistance in Cox’s Bazar and Bhasan Char.
Highlighting ongoing challenges, she stressed the need for increased international funding to meet essential needs such as food, healthcare, clean water, sanitation, and education for refugees. She called on UNHCR to sustain its efforts in addressing these urgent requirements.
Both sides agreed on the importance of keeping the Rohingya crisis visible at the international level.
Ivo Freijsen praised Bangladesh for hosting a large number of Rohingya refugees and expressed appreciation for its continued support. He said UNHCR will remain engaged in responding to the humanitarian situation.
