Dhaka today raised deep concern to Myanmar over instances of gunfire targeting Bangladeshi fishermen amid the neighbouring country’s internal conflict, stressing the urgency of preventing further such occurrences. According to a press release from the foreign ministry, the meeting’s Foreign Secretary voiced serious worries about the worsening situation in Myanmar, especially in Rakhine State.
He mentioned errant mortar bombs and gunfire at Bangladeshi boats as a result of Myanmar’s internal strife, expressing Dhaka’s concerns over border security.
The foreign secretary claimed that these occurrences had affected the daily life of Bangladeshi border people by increasing tensions.
He also emphasised how the unrest in Myanmar has exacerbated forced migration, leading to a current surge of Rohingya into Bangladesh, where they join the more than 1.2 million already receiving refuge.
The foreign secretary reflected on his recent trip to Cox’s Bazar, pointing to the worsening of law and order, the increase in criminal activity and violent clashes within the camps, and the rise in drug trafficking and smuggling, all of which have put a significant strain on local administration and resources.
He also emphasised the significance of an early repatriation procedure by pointing out the negative effects on host communities’ economies and environments.
The Rohingya in the camps have a great desire to return to Myanmar, the foreign secretary said.The ambassador of Myanmar affirmed the necessity of their repatriation and acknowledged the need for a workable solution to the displacement situation.
The Foreign Secretary urged Myanmar to act immediately to address the situation and stop more displacement towards Bangladesh in light of the new UNDP forecast of a possible famine in Rakhine.
