Norway stressed the need of protecting the Rohingyas in Myanmar, respecting their fundamental rights, a lasting solution to their citizenship issues and their right to return to their homes.
This issue was discussed during the recent official visit of Foreign Secretary Md Shahidul Haque to Oslo at the invitation of his Norwegian counterpart Wegger Strommen to co-chair the political consultations between the two countries.
Bangladesh delegation was comprised of Bangladesh Ambassador to Norway (with residence in Stockholm) Md Nazmul Islam and Director General (West Europe and the EU) of Ministry of Foreign Affairs Mohammad Khorshed A Khastagir, among others.
According to a UNB report, Bangladesh Foreign Secretary briefed his Norwegian counterpart about the state of play of this humanitarian catastrophe, said the Foreign Ministry on Sunday.
Secretary General, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Norway, Strommen reiterated Norwegian government's appreciation for Bangladesh's commendable role for providing shelter to 1.1 million displaced Rohingyas.
He emphasised the need for quick and full implementation of the recommendations of the Advisory Commission on Rakhine State, chaired by former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan.
Foreign Secretary Haque acknowledged Norway’s deep political and humanitarian support for this persecuted people and stressed the need for sustained and intensified international pressure on Myanmar.
Bangladesh and Norway have committed to collaborate comprehensively to develop the maritime sector of Bangladesh.
Both sides also underscored the need for establishing a resident Bangladesh Mission in Oslo to realise the full potential of bilateral relations.
Foreign Secretary Haque met Norwegian Foreign Minister Ine Eriksen Soreide and discussed issues of mutual interest, particularly the Rohingya crisis.
Foreign Minister Soreide reaffirmed Norway’s continued strong political and humanitarian support, until a durable solution is reached.