DHAKA, Nov 25, 2024 (BSS)- Bangladesh Ambassador to Italy Rakibul Haque has called upon the World Food Programme (WFP) to enhance food assistance for Rohingyas and to take an active role in accelerating their repatriation to Myanmar.

The appeal was made during a meeting with WFP Executive Director Cindy McCain on November 22 following the ambassador’s presentation of credentials as Bangladesh’s Permanent Representative to the WFP at its headquarters in Rome, a press release said here today.

Haque noted that the number of displaced people is increasing due to new births in camps and the continued influx of Rohingyas fleeing unrest.

To address this, the ambassador called for systematic data collection and an expansion of WFP’s emergency food assistance programmes. He also emphasized the necessity of including all Rohingyas in fortified rice distribution initiatives.

Haque also sought WFP’s support in improving the livelihoods of marginalized farmers in Bangladesh who are adversely affected by climate change.
 
The ambassador also commended WFP’s emergency food assistance and rescue operations in war-torn Gaza and stressed the importance of ensuring food security for all Palestinians.

He expressed gratitude for WFP’s support during Bangladesh’s tenure as President of the WFP Executive Board in 2022 and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to playing an active role as a board member.

In response, McCain assured him that the organization would seriously consider expanding its humanitarian food assistance programs for Rohingyas in Bangladesh.