Bangladesh President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has called on the United Kingdom and the international community to take stronger action to ensure the safe return of Rohingya refugees to Myanmar and protect vulnerable women and children living in Bangladesh.

He made the call during a courtesy meeting with Sophie Helen Rhys-Jones, the Duchess of Edinburgh, at Bangabhaban on Wednesday, according to the President's Press Wing.

The president said the Duchess's visit carried a message of hope for the Rohingya, particularly women and children facing an uncertain future. He expressed hope that her visit to the refugee camps would draw greater international attention to the prolonged humanitarian crisis.

He said the protracted Rohingya crisis was placing considerable pressure on Bangladesh's socioeconomic and environmental conditions, while also raising concerns over regional security.

Stressing the need for a sustainable solution, the president called for an environment that would allow Rohingya refugees to return voluntarily, safely and with dignity. He also urged continued humanitarian assistance and stronger international efforts to protect women and children at risk.

During the meeting, the president welcomed the Duchess to Bangladesh and praised her longstanding work on women's empowerment, eye health and youth development.

He also highlighted the longstanding friendship between Bangladesh and the UK, reaffirming Dhaka's commitment to strengthening bilateral relations based on mutual respect and shared interests.

The two sides discussed ways to increase British investment in Bangladesh, improve the education system and expand women's participation in sports.

The Duchess shared her experiences from her three-day visit, which included Rohingya refugee camps in Cox's Bazar, the Bangladesh Krira Shikkha Protishtan (BKSP) and the Bangladesh Institute of Peace Support Operation Training (BIPSOT).

She praised Bangladesh's progress in women's empowerment and their contribution to the country's economic development.

The president expressed hope that her visit would further strengthen the existing friendship and cooperation between the two countries.

Senior officials from the President's Office and the Foreign Ministry, the British high commissioner and members of the Duchess's delegation were present at the meeting.

BOB Post