Diplomatic Correspondent :
The Netherlands has reiterated its firm support for Bangladesh’s ongoing efforts to ensure a durable and dignified solution to the protracted Rohingya crisis, as discussions intensify ahead of an upcoming international conference on the issue.
The matter came up during a farewell meeting between the outgoing Dutch Head of Mission, Andre Carstens, and Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus at the State Guest House Jamuna on Wednesday, according to a statement from the Office of the Chief Adviser.
The meeting focused on preparations for the upcoming global conference on the Rohingya situation, scheduled for September. The conference is expected to draw renewed international attention to the humanitarian and political challenges faced by more than one million Rohingya refugees currently residing in Bangladesh.
The Netherlands, a long-standing development partner of Bangladesh, reaffirmed its continued engagement in supporting the voluntary, safe, and dignified repatriation of the Rohingyas to their homeland in Myanmar, which remains embroiled in internal conflict.
The Rohingyas, a stateless Muslim minority, fled mass atrocities in August 2017, which the United Nations described as a “textbook example of ethnic cleansing.” Since then, they have taken refuge in camps in Cox’s Bazar and on Bhasan Char, where they continue to face severe humanitarian challenges.
Carstens paid particular tribute to the “July Declaration,” issued in the aftermath of the Gen-Z-led July Uprising, calling it a “pivotal moment” that links Bangladesh’s historic struggles with its aspirations for inclusive democracy.
In a unique and heartfelt gesture, the Dutch envoy presented Professor Yunus with a set of song lyrics he had written as a tribute to the youth-led movement. Set to the tune of George Harrison’s iconic song Bangladesh, the lyrics celebrate the spirit, courage, and vision of Bangladesh’s younger generation.
A recorded version of the song and an accompanying video were also shared during the meeting.
An excerpt from the lyrics reads:
“Bangladesh, Bangladesh,
Full of friendly people, doing fine,
Revolution paved the way,
For to say they want to say…”
“Gen Z showed the way,
Turned a nightmare into a day…”
The cultural tribute underscored Carstens’s deep personal connection with Bangladesh and admiration for its ongoing transformation.
Beyond the Rohingya issue, Carstens and Professor Yunus reflected on the deepening bilateral relationship between the two countries. The Dutch envoy commended Professor Yunus for his leadership during a critical transitional period following the change in regime.
“You will be remembered,” Carstens remarked, lauding the Chief Adviser’s dedication to democratic reform and national reconciliation.
He also welcomed the recent unveiling of the national election roadmap, describing the timeline as “perfect” and a vital step towards the restoration of democratic governance.
Special Envoy to the Chief Adviser Lutfey Siddiq and SDG Coordinator Lamiya Murshed were also present at the meeting.
