Opposition Leader Seeks China's Support for Swift Resolution of Rohingya Crisis

Opposition Leader and Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman has called on China to play a greater role in resolving the Rohingya crisis and facilitating the early repatriation of displaced Myanmar nationals to their homeland.

The request was made during a courtesy meeting with Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen at the Opposition Leader's official residence on Minto Road in Dhaka on Tuesday.

According to a press release, the two sides held cordial and productive discussions on a range of issues of mutual interest concerning Bangladesh and China.

During the meeting, both sides expressed optimism that bilateral relations would continue to grow stronger across economic, political, trade, diplomatic and people-to-people cooperation. They also reaffirmed their commitment to working together to further accelerate development and expand bilateral collaboration.

The discussions also covered the proposed Teesta Barrage Mega Project, the China-Myanmar-Bangladesh Economic Corridor (CMBC), China's investment in Bangladesh, and several proposed development projects.

Dr. Shafiqur Rahman urged the Chinese government to extend its support for an early resolution of the Rohingya crisis and to help ensure the safe and sustainable repatriation of Rohingya refugees to Myanmar.

Both sides highlighted the longstanding friendship between Bangladesh and China, noting that the relationship has played an important role in promoting the welfare of the two peoples, development cooperation, trade expansion and cultural exchanges. They expressed hope that bilateral ties would become even deeper and more comprehensive in the years ahead.

Also present at the meeting were Zhang Jing, Director of the Political Section of the Chinese Embassy, Ru Qi, Political Attaché, Barrister Mir Ahmad Bin Qasem Arman, Foreign Affairs Adviser to the Opposition Leader, and Ali Ahmad Mabrur, a member of the Opposition Leader's Foreign Affairs Advisory Committee.