The US is ready to assist Bangladesh to find a lasting solution for Rohingya refugees in their country, according to María Otero, US Under Secretary for Democracy and Global Affairs. Otero who oversees and co-ordinates US foreign policy on issues such as democracy and human rights, was in Bangladesh on Nov.15.
Communal violence between Muslims and Buddhist in June and October has displaced over 100,000 people in Arakan State, Burma. Most are Muslim.
During the three-day visit to Bangladesh she met with United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) officials to assess the plight of the estimated 300,000 Rohingya refugees living in camps on the border.
During a press conference at Cox’s Bazar Airport, Ms. María Otero told the media that the US is ready to help Burma, Bangladesh and any other countries affected by Rohingya displacement. The statement came shortly after Otero visited Kutupalong makeshift camp.
The “Rohingya issue is complicated” and collective regional efforts are necessary to find a solution to it. The US Under Secretary of State also said that Burma must bring stability to Arakan State. The Bangladeshi government should allow Rohingya Muslims and other individuals fleeing violence in Arakan State to take refuge in the country. International non-governmental organizations (INGOs) need to be allowed to provide assistance for refugees who have already crossed into the country.
The Burma government must “hold those responsible for the violence fully accountable under just and transparent procedures according to the rule of law”.
