The European Union (EU) has announced €68 million in aid to support Bangladesh in managing the Rohingya crisis and to assist those affected by the ongoing conflict in Myanmar's Rakhine State.
EU Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness, and Crisis Management, Hadja Lahbib, shared this commitment during a meeting with Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus at the state guest house, Jamuna, in Dhaka on Monday (March 3).
Commissioner Lahbib noted that while this funding surpasses last year's EU contribution, it is still insufficient to prevent further deterioration of humanitarian conditions in the Rohingya camps, as financial shortages continue to worsen.
Chief Adviser Yunus reaffirmed Bangladesh's dedication to addressing the crisis, calling it a long-standing challenge without a clear resolution in sight. "This issue has persisted for years, and yet there is no definite timeline for a solution," he said.
Welcoming the EU commissioner's visit, Yunus added, "Your presence in Bangladesh is encouraging. The UN Secretary-General is also expected to visit. We are working to bring greater international attention to the Rohingya crisis."
Commissioner Lahbib emphasized that peace remains the only viable solution. She also warned about the dangers of misinformation, which often exacerbates humanitarian crises.
During their hour-long discussion, they also explored opportunities for hydropower imports from Nepal, flood management strategies, climate change challenges in the region, energy connectivity, and reforms undertaken by the interim government.
