EU Welcomes Signing of a Bilateral Repatriation Agreement on Rohingya Refugees

Brussels, MINA – The EU welcomed on Thursday the signing of the repatriation agreement between the governments of Myanmar and Bangladesh today in Nay Pyi Taw as an important step towards addressing one of the worst humanitarian and human rights crises of our times.

“We now expect the agreement signed today to be implemented without delay, and Myanmar to create the conditions on the ground that will allow for a voluntary, safe and dignified return of the refugees to their places of origin,” KUNA reported, citing EU High Representative Federica Mogherini in a statement Thursday night.

Mogherini recalled that earlier this week in her talks in Dakha with the Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, and in Nay Pyi Taw with the State Counsellor of Myanmar, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, she encouraged both countries to reach a swift conclusion of a bilateral repatriation agreement as a matter of urgency.

“I am pleased to see that their commitment has brought them to achieving this important result,” she said.

“The European Union will monitor with attention its implementation in full compliance with international law, and reiterates its call for full and unconditional humanitarian access without delay,” she added. (T/RS5/RS1)

Mi’raj Islamic News Ageny (MINA)