Dhaka, 05 March 2020:

The High Commissioner for Human Rights acknowledged Bangladesh’s proven track record as a trusted partner of the United Nations and recognized Bangladesh’s achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals as well as the Government’s commitment to uphold the rule of law. Madame Bachelet commended the Government’s efforts in hosting the forcibly displaced Rohingyas despite scarcity of resources. She profusely lauded, in particular, the Government for allowing education for the Rohingya children. 

During the meeting with Madame Michelle Bachelet yesterday in Geneva, the State Minister added, “Bangabandhu’s daughter Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is committed to strengthen the roots of democratic norms, rule of law and respect for human rights in Bangladesh”. “Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, struggled for a secular and pluralistic society and, as we are celebrating his birth centenary, we have the opportunity to reflect on his values and ideals” said State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Md. Shahriar Alam, MP.

Following up on the recent engagements at the high political level, the State Minister reiterated Bangladesh Government’s willingness to continue to work closely. Referring to the High Commissioner’s comment on Bangladesh during her recent global round up in the ongoing session of the Human Rights Council, he highlighted the risks associated when UN bodies use unconfirmed information. In order to avoid exaggeration, he urged the UN human rights chief to verify information received from alternative sources. 

Madame Bachelet accepted the State Minister’s invitation to visit Bangladesh in the context of the Mujib Year.

The State Minister was in Geneva in connection with the launch of the ‘Joint Response Plan for Rohingya Humanitarian Crisis’ and,  he also met with the UN High Commissioner for Refugees on Tuesday.