On Tuesday, Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen stated that the only viable solution to the Rohingya crisis is their safe repatriation to Myanmar. "It is a big problem for Bangladesh," Yao said, noting the escalating conflict in Myanmar, particularly in Rakhine State.

Bangladesh currently hosts approximately 1.3 million Rohingyas in Cox’s Bazar and Bhasan Char, with the population increasing each year due to births.

During a press briefing at the Chinese Embassy, Ambassador Yao reiterated that repatriation is the only solution and confirmed China’s commitment to supporting this process. He emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts to end violence in Myanmar and to create conditions conducive to repatriation.

During Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s recent visit to China, both nations agreed that early repatriation is the key to resolving the issue of displaced people from Rakhine State who have taken refuge in Bangladesh. They urged all parties in Myanmar to resolve their differences through dialogue and consultation, stressing the need for a cessation of hostilities in Rakhine State.

The Bangladeshi government expressed its gratitude to China for its constructive role in facilitating dialogue aimed at a peaceful resolution. China commended Bangladesh for its humanitarian efforts and expressed support for finding a mutually acceptable solution through friendly consultations, in line with existing repatriation agreements between the two countries.

According to a joint statement issued after the visit, China will continue to support efforts for early repatriation, including providing a platform for dialogue.

Ambassador Yao also highlighted the consensus reached on various international and regional issues, such as the Rohingya repatriation, United Nations matters, World Trade Organization concerns, the Gaza crisis, human rights, and climate change. He stressed that China-Bangladesh cooperation extends beyond bilateral interests, aiming to maintain global peace and stability, protect the interests of developing countries, and uphold international justice.

Deputy Chief of Mission at the Chinese Embassy, Liu Yuyin, was also present at the media briefing.

BOB Post