China’s Ambassador to Bangladesh, Yao Wen, has reiterated that the repatriation of Rohingya refugees to Myanmar remains the only permanent solution to the protracted crisis but acknowledged that current ground realities in Rakhine State make the process unrealistic at this stage.
Speaking to journalists on Sunday after signing a memorandum of understanding with the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) on a $2.5 million assistance package for Rohingyas, the ambassador stressed the need for pragmatism. He said that while all stakeholders want to see repatriation, the ongoing conflict in Myanmar’s Arakan (Rakhine) region poses serious obstacles.
“We must be realistic. Under the present security situation in Rakhine State, it is very difficult to carry out repatriation now,” Yao said, adding that sustained efforts are required to help ensure a ceasefire inside Myanmar before meaningful progress can be made.
According to Dhaka Post, the Chinese envoy also said he could not provide any timeline or guarantee regarding when repatriation might begin, noting that the process depends on Bangladesh and requires strong support from the international community. “The Rohingyas have been here for eight years. This process should not be delayed further,” he said, while emphasising the complexity of the issue.
Ambassador Yao underscored that safe, voluntary and dignified repatriation requires multiple assurances and favourable conditions. He called for coordinated efforts involving China, international organisations, neighbouring countries, ASEAN member states and Western nations. “Repatriation is not just China’s position; it is also the position of Bangladesh and many other countries,” he said, warning that the crisis has broader implications for regional peace and stability.
He further expressed optimism that the international community remains united in working toward a solution, adding that China would continue to do whatever it can to help create conducive conditions for eventual repatriation.
Meanwhile, UNHCR said in a press release that the $2.5 million Chinese contribution will help sustain the supply of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) for Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh. The initiative aims to reduce reliance on firewood, improve safety, health and nutrition, and protect forests surrounding the camps.
UNHCR Representative in Bangladesh Ivo Freijsen welcomed the donation, saying it comes at a critical time when global humanitarian funding is shrinking and many life-saving programmes are under threat. He said the support goes beyond fuel assistance, helping to uphold refugees’ dignity and protection while reminding them they have not been forgotten by the world.
Ambassador Yao also noted that as global humanitarian funding declines and some countries scale back commitments, vulnerable communities face growing hardships. He said China, as a long-standing development partner and friend of Bangladesh, is expanding its support and will work closely with UNHCR and the Bangladesh government to ensure the project benefits displaced people from Rakhine State as quickly as possible.
