DHAKA, Nov 20, 2019 (BSS) – Bangladesh has urged Myanmar to adopt clearly
defined reconciliation strategies through a whole-of-society approach with
transparency and objectivity to resolve Rohingya crisis.
“We believe reconciliation can be a critical enabler for resolving the
Rohingya humanitarian crisis the brunt of which we are bearing,” Ambassador
and Permanent Representative of Bangladesh to the United Nations (UN) Masud
Bin Momen said at the UN Security Council (UNSC) on Tuesday in New York,
according to a message received here.
The UNSC organized a open debate on “The Role of Reconciliation in
Maintaining International Peace & Security” at the UN Headquarters.
Ambassador Masud emphasized on the necessity of a robust enabling
environment in Rakhine underpinned by dialogue between the Rohingyas, rest of
Myanmar society and Myanmar authorities.
He called upon Myanmar to promote active participation of women and young
people and ensure accountability and justice for serious violations of human
international humanitarian law and human rights law.
In this context, the ambassador recalled Bangladesh’s successful
experience of reconciliation in the Chittagong Hills Tracts in 1997 under the
astute leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
He also mentioned Bangladesh’s contribution, through peacekeeping, to
national and local reconciliation strategies in countries emerging from
conflict.
The Permanent Representative also urged the Security Council to promote
sustainable peace in Myanmar’s Rakhine state through reconciliation and
reintegration of Rohingya community with Myanmar society.
Security Council has to encourage Myanmar to address core grievances and
ensure unhindered and safe passage of relevant humanitarian personnel and
supplies to the Rakhine, he added.
The UN Secretary-General also spoke on the occasion stating that “no
reconciliation without justice” will work.
The Open Debate was held under the Presidency of United Kingdom.