Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin has voiced serious security concerns along Bangladesh's border with Myanmar, citing recent incidents of stray mortar shells and gunfire at Bangladeshi fishing boats due to Myanmar’s ongoing internal conflicts. He expressed these concerns during a meeting with Myanmar’s Ambassador to Bangladesh, U Kyaw Soe Moe, on Sunday.

“These incidents have heightened tensions among Bangladeshi border communities, impacting their daily lives,” the foreign secretary remarked, emphasizing the adverse effects on local residents near the border.

The discussion also addressed a recent UNDP warning of a potential famine in Myanmar's Rakhine State. The foreign secretary urged Myanmar to act promptly to mitigate this crisis, cautioning that further destabilization could lead to additional displacement towards Bangladesh.

Expressing deep concern over escalating violence in Myanmar, particularly in Rakhine State, Jashim highlighted how the unrest has driven more Rohingya into Bangladesh, adding to the 1.2 million already taking refuge there. He also referenced recent gunfire incidents involving Bangladeshi fishermen, stressing the need to prevent further such cases.

Reflecting on his recent visit to Cox’s Bazar, Jashim noted the rising law and order issues within the Rohingya camps, including an uptick in crime, violent clashes, drug smuggling, and human trafficking—all of which are straining local resources and administration. He also pointed out the environmental and economic challenges faced by host communities, calling for an expedited repatriation process.

He emphasized that many Rohingya in the camps are eager to return to Myanmar, a sentiment echoed by the Myanmar ambassador, who acknowledged the need for a practical solution to the displacement crisis and for progressing the repatriation process, according to the foreign ministry.

BOB Post