A Lifeline for Rohingya Refugees
In a significant humanitarian gesture, Sir Philip Barton, the Permanent Under-Secretary at the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), has unveiled a fresh injection of £3 million. This amount, equivalent to approximately 42 crore taka, is intended to assist Rohingya refugees residing in Cox’s Bazar and Bhasan Char.
The announcement comes as Sir Philip Barton undertakes his fifth visit to Bangladesh, marking the occasion of the UK-Bangladesh Strategic Dialogue. This collaborative initiative seeks to further strengthen the historical ties between the two nations and foster a robust partnership in the realms of economics, trade, and security.
A Commitment to Rohingya Refugees Bangladesh
Permanent Under-Secretary Sir Philip Barton emphasized the UK’s commitment to alleviating the plight of Rohingya refugees, stating,
“I am pleased to announce a further UK contribution of £3,000,000 to UNHCR, which will help to ensure refugees in Cox’s Bazar and Bhasan Char are able to access healthcare, clean water, hygiene and sanitation services and cooking fuel.”
Standing Strong Six Years On
Reflecting on the enduring crisis, Barton added,
“Six years since the atrocities of 2017, which forced Rohingya refugees into Bangladesh, the UK continues to stand with the Rohingya, Bangladesh, and all those affected by this crisis.”
“We continue to push for a long-term solution that will enable the refugees to return to Myanmar on a safe, voluntary, and dignified basis when the conditions there allow. Until that time, the UK is committed to supporting the Rohingya refugees and host communities in Bangladesh.”
The UK’s Ongoing Commitment
In a broader context, the UK actively engaged in providing crucial support to Rohingya refugees and the Bangladeshi host communities since 2017. It allocated an impressive sum of £365 million, equivalent to over 5,000 crore taka, for this purpose.
This comprehensive assistance encompasses essential provisions such as food, shelter, water and sanitation, healthcare, and protection services.
Furthermore, the latest financial commitment underscores the UK’s unwavering dedication. It serves to emphasize the ongoing efforts to alleviate the challenges faced by Rohingya refugees and highlights the enduring partnership between the UK and Bangladesh. Together, they are actively addressing one of the world’s most pressing humanitarian crises.
Sources: THX News & British High Commission Dhaka.
