Saudi Arabia has expressed support for Bangladesh’s efforts to repatriate Rohingya refugees to Myanmar, saying an expected positive verdict in the genocide case before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) could set a historic precedent in international human rights law.

Saudi Arabia’s new Permanent Representative to the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Ambassador Khalid Bin Ismaeel Bin Badawi Bin Hussain Al Sharif, made the remarks during a meeting with Bangladesh’s Permanent Representative to the OIC, Ambassador MJH Jabed, in Jeddah, according to an official message received in Dhaka.

The Saudi envoy said an ICJ verdict establishing responsibility for genocide would have significance beyond the Rohingya crisis by strengthening international accountability for serious human rights violations.

According to BSS, the two diplomats also discussed preparations for the 52nd OIC Council of Foreign Ministers meeting in Baghdad and explored ways to strengthen cooperation on issues of mutual interest.

The Saudi ambassador reaffirmed Riyadh’s continued support for the repatriation of Rohingya refugees to Myanmar, where violence, insecurity and the absence of adequate guarantees for their rights have remained major obstacles to a safe and sustainable return.

Bangladesh has repeatedly called for international pressure on Myanmar to create conditions for the voluntary, safe and dignified return of the Rohingya, most of whom fled a military crackdown in Rakhine State in 2017. More than one million Rohingya remain in Bangladesh, placing sustained pressure on the country’s resources and humanitarian response.

The ICJ case, brought by The Gambia against Myanmar under the Genocide Convention, is a major international legal effort to establish accountability for alleged genocide against the Rohingya. A final ruling on the merits would carry significant legal implications, although the court’s proceedings and any eventual judgment must follow its established legal process.

During the meeting, Jabed also expressed Bangladesh’s solidarity with Saudi Arabia following Houthi attacks on civilian infrastructure that reportedly caused casualties, including the deaths of two Bangladeshi nationals.

The Saudi envoy appreciated the Bangladeshi government and people for their support, describing the attacks as violations of international law.

Both sides agreed to coordinate their positions at OIC forums and strengthen cooperation in trade and finance, agriculture, healthcare, science and technology.

The meeting highlighted the importance of Saudi-Bangladesh cooperation on the Rohingya crisis, with Dhaka continuing to seek stronger international engagement to secure accountability and create conditions for refugees to return to their homeland with their rights and security protected.

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