BM Desk:

As Australian High Commissioner Jeremy Buer bid farewell to Bangladesh, he delivered a significant piece of news: Australia will provide around $235 million to support the dignified return of over one million forcibly displaced Rohingya refugees to their homeland in Myanmar.

During his farewell call on Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Buer reiterated Australia’s commitment to this pressing issue, highlighting the plight of the Rohingya and Bangladesh’s unwavering support for their safe repatriation. This financial assistance marks a major step forward in the complex process of ensuring their return.

The meeting also saw a warm exchange of discussions on various aspects of the bilateral relationship between Bangladesh and Australia. Prime Minister Hasina emphasized Bangladesh’s progress in upholding democracy since 2008, its efficient handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, and its proactive approach to disaster management and climate change adaptation. Social safety net programs and a thriving Bangladeshi diaspora in Australia were also touched upon.

Buer commended Bangladesh’s pandemic response and expressed interest in strengthening people-to-people ties and cooperation in key sectors like energy and climate change. He further hinted at potential collaboration in defense and offered Australia’s expertise in developing Bangladesh Cricket Board’s infrastructure and training facilities.

The farewell meeting concluded with both sides expressing mutual admiration and a keenness to deepen the long-standing partnership between Bangladesh and Australia. With Australia’s renewed commitment to the Rohingya cause and continued interest in diverse areas of cooperation, the two nations can forge an even stronger and mutually beneficial relationship in the years to come.