Several political parties, including the BNP, have expressed concern over the establishment of a humanitarian corridor through Bangladesh to facilitate aid delivery to Myanmar’s conflict-affected Rakhine state.

The clarification came amid public debate and media reports suggesting that Bangladesh had taken a policy decision to allow such a corridor. 

Concerns were raised by political parties and other stakeholders, who said such a move—linked to national security and sovereignty—should not be taken without consulting key partners.

In response, Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqur Alam made a detailed post on Facebook on Tuesday (April 29), addressing the issue.

He said the government has held no talks with the United Nations or any other international agency about setting up a so-called humanitarian corridor through Cox’s Bazar to Rakhine.

“We want to state clearly that there has been no discussion between the government and any agency regarding such a corridor,” he said.

However, he added that if the United Nations begins humanitarian operations in Rakhine, Bangladesh is willing to offer logistical support.

Referring to UNDP data, he noted that Rakhine is currently facing a severe humanitarian crisis. Bangladesh, he said, has always played a leading role in humanitarian support, citing the recent example of sending relief to Myanmar after a major earthquake.

He also warned that continued suffering in Rakhine could lead to more people seeking refuge in Bangladesh, which the country can no longer bear.

“We believe that humanitarian efforts under UN leadership will help restore stability in Rakhine and create conditions for Rohingya repatriation,” said Shafiqur.

He further clarified that using Bangladesh as a route remains the only practical way to send aid into Rakhine. Bangladesh is, in principle, ready to provide logistics support if such aid begins.

“But no final decision has been made yet,” he said, adding that the government is in touch with relevant parties and will consult with its partners in due time.

Shafiqur also dismissed media reports suggesting involvement of a major world power in the corridor plan, calling them “completely baseless and politically motivated disinformation.”

MSK/