DHAKA, Aug 7, 2018 (BSS) – Foreign Minister AH Mahmood Ali today said
Bangladesh and Japan have shared some proposals for the safe and sustainable
return of the Rohingyas to Myanmar as Japan has agreed to provide necessary
support to repatriation and resettlement of the Rohingyas.
“We agreed on the importance of stability in the region for building
stronger economic partnership between our two countries and early realisation
of safe and secure return of the Rohingyas is the key. Japan has agreed to
provide necessary support to realisation of repatriation and resettlement of
the Rohingyas,” he said.
The Foreign Minister said this in a joint press statement after holding a
bilateral meeting with his Japanese counterpart Taro Kono at State Guest
House Meghna this evening.
Mahmood Ali said during the meeting, they shared their views on the
process for early repatriation of the forcibly displaced people from Myanmar
and their subsequent resettlement.
“Japan understands that there is a compelling reason to create conducive
atmosphere in Rakhine State of Myanmar for safe and sustainable return of the
Rohingyas and we have shared some specific proposals in this direction,” he
said.
In response, Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono said they had candid
exchange of views on the situation in Rakhine State as Japan values highly
the Bangladeshi government’s general acceptance of the displaced people and
continuation of dialogue with the Myanmar government to resolve the matter.
“It’s extremely important to realise in a sustainable manner the safe,
voluntary and dignified return of the displaced people founded on the
agreements of the governments of Bangladesh and Myanmar,” Kono said,
affirming that Japan would continue to support a cooperation framework of the
two countries and to provide assistance.
Referring to the landslides and other problems being faced by Rohingyas in
Cox’s Bazar, the Japanese Foreign Minister said that Japan would steadfastly
implement assistance to the displaced people as well as the host communities.
The Japanese Foreign Minister said during the today’s meeting, they have
confirmed the further deepening of bilateral relationship under the
comprehensive partnership and strengthening efforts to develop investment-
friendly climate, including safety measures for the Japanese investors, here.
“I once again convey the position of Japan to continue to cooperate with
Bangladesh as you aspire to be a middle-income country by 2021,” he said.
He also hoped that the students’ protest would come down in a peaceful
manner.
The Japanese Foreign Minister also expressed his interest to work with his
Bangladeshi counterpart to further reinforce the bilateral relations as well
as cooperation.
In his statement, Mahmood Ali said Bangladesh deeply values the friendship
with Japan saying, “I wish to reiterate that Bangladesh will continue to work
closely with Japan for our shared mutual interest to ensure peace and
prosperity for our two peoples”.
He said Bangladesh is grateful to Japan for continuing development
cooperation and signing the 39th ODA (Official Development Assistance)
package of about US$ 2 billion. “Successful utilisation of the Japanese ODA
to Bangladesh has earned Bangladesh the status of a role model for Japanese
economic cooperation.”
Mahmood Ali said they have agreed to work together to promote and maintain
regional and international peace and security and address the global menace
of terrorism. “I would like to thank Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and his
government for standing by Bangladesh in our times of need,” he added.
The Bangladeshi Foreign Minister said investigation into the Holey Artisan
incident is being conducted with highest priority while charge-sheet has been
submitted before court on 23 July 2018. “I hope Japan will stand in
solidarity with Bangladesh in our fight against terrorism and review its
travel alert.”
He said Bangladesh welcomes recent developments leading to de-escalation of
tension in the Korean peninsula. “We commend Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s
leadership and efforts to find a peaceful solution.”