Rohingyas can't be repatriated safely amid current situation in Rakhine: Khalilur

The Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh cannot be repatriated safely to Rakhine state in Myanmar amid the current condition there, National Security Adviser and High Representative on Rohingya Issues Khalilur Rahman said today (18 April).

"We are working with all parties so that a favourable condition for Rohingya repatriation is created in Rakhine. We hope that we will be successful," Khalilur said.

The national security adviser made the remarks while talking to reporters after attending a festival of the Rakhine community at Cox's Bazar town this evening.

Attending the Jolkeli festival of the Rakhine community as the chief guest, Khalilur said, "Bangladesh is a country of every religion, every ethnic community, and every culture. Now is the time for all the celebrations. We have recently observed Bangla Noboborsho, and today I have attended the Sanggreng festival. I welcome everyone participating in the festival."

Replying to a question, the high representative termed Myanmar's decision to take back 180,000 Rohingyas back as a significant diplomatic achievement of the interim government.

"This is a remarkable step. It was needed for Rohingya repatriation," he added.

Khalilur further said, "I have told the Rohingyas that an international conference is about to happen at the United Nations and they must have their presence there collectively so that they can go back to their country."

"We've kept all the doors open. We are trying so that the Rohingyas can return to Myanmar by next Eid as per the instructions of Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus," Khalilur also said.