DHAKA, Oct 03, 2024 (BSS) - President Mohammed Shahabuddin has called upon the international community, including the European Union (EU), to come forward to ensure repatriation of Rohingyas to Myanmar with safety and dignity.

“We appreciate the EU for its humanitarian assistance to the Rohingyas and its commitment towards a durable solution to the crisis,” the President said when newly appointed EU Ambassador to Bangladesh Michael William Miller presented his credentials to him at Bangabhaban here today.

The Head of the State hoped that the UN, the EU and other partners would undertake effective actions for repatriation of Rohingyas to Myanmar with safety and dignity.

After the meeting, President’s Press Secretary Md Joynal Abedin briefed the BSS about the outcome of the meeting.

The President highly appreciated the EU’s strong support for Bangladesh over the last five decades in its path towards inclusive growth, sustainable development and the reduction of poverty.

He said the EU, a political and economic union of 27 member states, is now the largest export destination and a significant development partner of Bangladesh.

President Shahabuddin called for continuation of the duty-free quota facilities in the European Union after Bangladesh’s graduation from LDC status in 2029.

Bangladesh is keen to see the widening and deepening of its relations with the EU, particularly in the areas of climate change and green transition, education and skills development, connectivity, and investment promotion, he added.

During the meeting with the EU ambassador, the President said Bangladesh welcomes greater engagement with the EU against human trafficking and migrant-smuggling.

The President sought cooperation of the European Union for the promotion of safe, orderly and regular migration of skilled workers and professionals from Bangladesh to the EU.

The existing bilateral relations between Bangladesh and the EU will further grow in depth and dimensions in the days ahead, he hoped.

President Shahabuddin assured the EU ambassador of providing full support from the authorities concerned in discharging his assignment in Bangladesh as the EU ambassador sought cooperation of the President.

On his arrival at the Bangabhaban, a smartly turned-out contingent of the horse-mounted President Guard Regiment (PGR) extended him the Guard of Honour as part of the ceremony.

President's Office Senior Secretary Nasimul Ghani and Military Secretary Major General Mohammad Adil Chowdhury and Foreign Secretary Md Jasim Uddin were present on the occasion.