Momen seeks Indonesia's political support in Rohingya repatriation

Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen sought political support from Indonesia in commencing the Rohingya repatriation to Myanmar.

He requested Indonesia to remain pro-active in the Asean platform to convince Myanmar for creating a conducive atmosphere for a safe, dignified and sustainable repatriation of the Rohingyas.

The foreign minister made the request while the outgoing Indonesian ambassador to Bangladesh, Rina Prihtyasmiarsi Soemarno, paid a farewell call on him in the capital on Tuesday.

During the meeting, Momen also suggested that an Asean-led observer team may be deployed in the Rakhine State to oversee the repatriation process.

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The foreign minister said that since there was no major violence in the Rakhine State in the last four years, repatriation can start under the supervision of a neutral international body.

The ambassador assured to remain engaged on the issue and continue Indonesia's support for a durable solution to the crisis.

Momen also sought Indonesia's support towards Bangladesh's bid to become a Sectoral Dialogue Partner of the Asean.

The foreign minister said that as a natural bridge between South and South East Asia, Bangladesh is a genuine candidate to become a Dialogue Partner of the Asean.

Also Read - Bangladesh-Myanmar talks on Rohingya repatriation deferred

Terming Indonesia an important partner of Bangladesh in the South East Asian region, Momen suggested that the multi-faceted relations could be expanded if more people to people contacts take place and barriers in trade and investment are removed.

The Indonesian ambassador agreed that Bangladesh has attained miraculous economic progress.

She was highly appreciative of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's government for the recent medical supplies to Indonesia in the latter's battle against Covid-19.

She said that the people of Indonesia would always remember with gratefulness this gesture from Bangladesh.

Noting Bangladesh's pharmaceutical products meet 97% of local demands and are exported to 144 countries, the foreign minister requested Jakarta to ease the registration process for Bangladeshi pharmaceutical products in Indonesia.

He noted that top-notch life saving drugs are available in Bangladesh at a much cheaper price than in many advanced countries.

The foreign minister suggested that the two countries may jointly celebrate the golden jubilee of the diplomatic relations next year.