Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen on Wednesday said two US congressmen, Ed Case and Richard McCormick, who were recently here, had suggested that Bangladesh absorb Rohingyas through giving them skills and education.
“We said no (to them). We said, Bangladesh is one of the most densely populated countries. We do not need citizens from other countries,” Momen told reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs while responding to a question.
Momen said Rohingyas should go back to their country of origin for a better life. “The US can take some of the Rohingyas,” he suggested.
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The US said they would take Rohingyas but they did not, the foreign minister said.
Momen said that western countries likely have the impression that Bangladesh will absorb Rohingya refugees since they are living here.
“Repatriation is the priority. The US should make efforts for their return to Myanmar,” he said, adding that Myanmar is not Bangladesh’s enemy, but they have some problems.
Earlier, the foreign minister said Myanmar is willing to take back Rohingyas but some foreign governments and international organisations are not supporting their repatriation at this moment.
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"They (international community) think it will not be wise to send the Rohingyas back to Myanmar until democracy is restored there," he told a group of reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on August 2.
Momen said they think there is a need for positive approach from all stakeholders who are working on the Rohingya issue to begin repatriation.
The foreign minister said Rohingyas are willing to return, and the Myanmar government is also willing to take them back.