Ambassador of Myanmar to Bangladesh U Kyaw Soe Moe made his first official visit to the Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain on Wednesday (16 October) morning at the latter’s office.
During the meeting, they addressed a variety of bilateral concerns, with a particular emphasis on the sustainable repatriation of the Rohingya population.
Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain underscored the need for both Bangladesh and Myanmar, as close neighbours, to prioritise resolving the challenges that affect their bilateral relations.
The foreign adviser expressed serious concern regarding the recent arrival of over 40,000 Myanmar nationals into Bangladesh, fleeing the escalating conflict in Myanmar’s border states.
He stressed the importance of regional stability, which he deemed critical for the well-being of both nations.
Additionally, the adviser reiterated the necessity of a safe and sustainable repatriation process for the displaced Rohingya population, underlining the significance of peace and stability within Myanmar itself.
In response, Ambassador U Kyaw Soe Moe acknowledged the difficulties arising from the ongoing conflict, explaining that efforts to repatriate displaced persons had been delayed following the breakdown of the ceasefire by the Arakan Army in November 2023.
The foreign adviser expressed optimism that the Myanmar government and key stakeholders would soon engage in constructive dialogue to address the crisis.
He also highlighted security concerns stemming from the volatile border situation, including the rising incidence of human trafficking.
Adviser Hossain reaffirmed Bangladesh’s commitment to enhancing regional cooperation with South-East Asian countries, identifying Myanmar as a crucial gateway.
He also sought Myanmar’s support for Bangladesh’s bid to secure a position as a Sectoral Dialogue Partner within ASEAN.
The two diplomats further discussed the potential for strengthening bilateral trade, increasing people-to-people exchanges, and the possible resumption of direct flights between Dhaka and Yangon.
They emphasised the importance of finalising the coastal shipping agreement, which is currently under negotiation between the two countries.
Ambassador U Kyaw Soe Moe conveyed his government’s gratitude to Bangladesh for providing shelter, food, and medical assistance to Myanmar troops, as well as facilitating their repatriation after they had recently crossed into Bangladesh amid the ongoing conflict in Rakhine.
