The interim government has not held any discussions with the United Nations (UN) or any other party regarding the establishment of a so-called "humanitarian corridor" through Bangladesh into Myanmar’s Rakhine State, Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam confirmed on Sunday.
“We want to make it categorically clear that the government has not discussed the so-called humanitarian corridor with the UN or any other entity,” Alam told addressing recent reports suggesting such a plan was under negotiation.
Alam clarified that while no official agreement or dialogue has taken place, Bangladesh would be willing to extend logistical support should there be a UN-led humanitarian assistance operation directed toward Rakhine.
“According to UNDP, Rakhine is facing an acute humanitarian situation,” he said. “Bangladesh has a stellar record of aiding neighboring countries in times of need—as demonstrated by our support to Myanmar following the recent devastating earthquake.”
He warned, however, that ongoing suffering in Rakhine could lead to a renewed influx of displaced people into Bangladesh. “We cannot afford another wave of refugees,” he said.
The press secretary expressed hope that UN-supported aid could help stabilize conditions in Rakhine and potentially pave the way for the safe return of Rohingya refugees currently residing in Bangladesh.
“Given the present conditions, the only viable route for delivering aid to Rakhine is through Bangladesh,” Alam noted. “We are agreeable in principle to providing logistical support, but no decision has been finalized regarding the aid itself.”
He added that discussions with concerned parties are ongoing and that relevant domestic stakeholders will be consulted in due course.
Alam also pushed back against reports suggesting involvement by a “major power” in the proposed corridor, labeling such claims as “pure and unadulterated propaganda.”
“We’ve observed a barrage of malicious disinformation being spread against Bangladesh in recent months. These latest claims are no different,” he said.
