Canadian Delegation Meets Muhammad Yunus, Discusses Rohingya Crisis

A seven-member Canadian parliamentary delegation has met with the Chief Adviser of the interim government, Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus.

The meeting took place on Wednesday at the State Guest House Jamuna, with Senator Salma Ataullahjan leading the delegation. During the meeting, both sides discussed strengthening bilateral trade cooperation and possible measures to address the Rohingya crisis.

The Chief Adviser briefed the delegation on the ongoing reform process in the country and preparations for the upcoming elections in February.

He said, “You have come to Bangladesh at a time when the country is undergoing a historic transformation — as the outcome of a youth-led movement. We are now preparing for the election, which will become a historic moment for the nation.”

He expressed gratitude to Canada for its long-standing support to the Rohingya community.

Professor Yunus said, “It has been eight years since the Rohingya crisis began. Their repatriation to their own country is the only sustainable solution — there is no alternative. About 1.2 million people are living here. Thousands of children are being born and growing up — but they do not know what their citizenship is or what their future holds. They are frustrated and angry. Now, with international assistance declining, the situation is becoming even more complicated.”

Senator Salma Ataullahjan said she would speak on the Rohingya issue and reaffirmed Canada’s continued commitment to the cause. She said, “I have been speaking on the Rohingya issue for a long time. It is a serious humanitarian concern. The world should focus on ensuring their peace and security.”

She thanked Professor Yunus for his ongoing efforts to resolve the Rohingya crisis.

The delegation also included Members of Parliament Salma Zahid (Scarborough Centre–Don Valley East, Liberal); Sameer Zuberi — Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities and a member of the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development; Mahmuda Khan, Global CEO of Human Concern International (HCI); Masum Mahbub, CEO of Human Concern USA (HCUSA); Ahmad Atiya, CEO of Gestalt Communications; and Usama Khan, CEO of Islamic Relief Canada.