Opposition Leader of Parliament and Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Shafiqur Rahman said effective cooperation from the international community, including China and India, is essential to resolve the Rohingya crisis.
He stressed that a permanent solution to this crisis can only be achieved by repatriating the Rohingyas to their homeland with dignity and security.
Shafiqur made these remarks during an exchange of views with journalists at the Sylhet Circuit House on Thursday afternoon. Shafiqur noted that there is no scope to view the Rohingya crisis merely as a bilateral issue between Bangladesh and Myanmar, describing it instead as an international problem.
While acknowledging that Bangladesh has been providing humanitarian aid to the Rohingyas for a long time, he highlighted that a permanent resolution cannot be achieved through temporary financial assistance alone.
He emphasised that a conducive environment for the return of the Rohingyas must be created in Myanmar, where the international community needs to play a more effective role.
Addressing Myanmar’s internal situation, Dr Shafiqur Rahman pointed out that the country remains unstable due to prolonged conflict, with various armed groups controlling different regions.
Consequently, determining with whom to negotiate and reach agreements regarding Rohingya repatriation has become a complex issue.
Underscoring the importance of China and India, the Jamaat Amir stated that alongside Bangladesh, both neighbouring countries hold significant roles regarding Myanmar.
He added that a path towards resolving the crisis could be forged if the international community, including the United Nations (UN), takes coordinated initiatives.
Shafiqur also stressed the importance of education and skill development for Rohingya children.
He suggested that alongside international aid, Rohingyas could be provided with training in productive work to offer limited livelihood opportunities, enabling them to become somewhat self-reliant while residing in the camps.
Turning to domestic issues, the Jamaat leader commented on the impact of rising fuel prices, noting that the hike has already affected commodity prices and increased travel costs for the public.
He added that bus and launch fares have risen, while train and air travel also involve various costs, though air travel remains out of reach for most people.
Asserting that fuel price hikes have a direct link to daily living costs, Shafiqur remarked that statements claiming fuel price increases will not impact commodity prices are inconsistent with reality.
Sylhet City Jamaat Ameer Muhammad Fakhrul Islam and Jamaat-e-Islami’s nominated mayor candidate for the Sylhet City Corporation election, Nurul Islam Babul, were present at the event.
