UN Chief Guterres Visits Bangladesh, Expresses Concern Over Rohingya Refugee Crisis
Dhaka (Bangladesh): United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres on Saturday expressed deep concern over the dire situation of Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh and called on the international community for financial and political support. He warned that without adequate assistance, a humanitarian crisis could emerge, affecting both Rohingya refugees and the Bangladeshi communities hosting them.
Guterres arrived in Dhaka on Friday for a four-day visit to Bangladesh. Today, he visited Cox’s Bazar, where millions of Rohingya refugees are living in harsh conditions in temporary camps. Observing the situation firsthand, he emphasized the need for global support to address this crisis.
The UN chief strongly criticized the United States and European nations for reducing humanitarian aid to Bangladesh, calling such cuts “a crime.” He stated that these funding reductions have made the already difficult conditions for Rohingya refugees even more uncertain. He urged the international community not to ignore this crisis and to ensure continued financial and political assistance for the refugees.
Guterres also praised the government and people of Bangladesh for their extraordinary generosity in hosting the Rohingya refugees despite significant social, economic, and environmental challenges.
Reaffirming the UN’s full commitment to a permanent solution, Guterres stressed that Myanmar must create conditions that allow for the voluntary, safe, dignified, and sustainable return of Rohingya refugees. He also revealed that UN member states are planning to hold a high-level conference to discuss the Rohingya crisis and explore long-term solutions for the displaced community.
During his visit, Guterres reiterated that he came to Bangladesh to express solidarity with the Rohingya refugees and the Bangladeshi citizens hosting them. He previously visited Cox’s Bazar in 2018, when he also made an urgent appeal for international support.
Bangladesh’s Foreign Affairs Advisor, Touhid Hossain, also participated in the joint press conference, discussing the Rohingya refugee crisis. The UN Secretary-General’s visit is expected to mobilize greater global assistance for the Rohingya refugees and accelerate efforts toward a lasting resolution.
