Settle disputes through dialogue, say 'no' to wars: PM Hasina

Bangladesh's Premier Sheikh Hasina called for speaking out against all forms of aggression and atrocities, and to say 'no' to wars.

Addressing the 80th Session of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) at the ESCAP Hall, United Nations Conference Center (UNCC) in Bangkok, Prime Minister Hasina called for a collective commitment to saying 'no' to wars and promoting dialogue to settle disputes.
During her visit to Thailand, the Prime Minister highlighted Bangladesh's support for the UN Secretary-General's "New Agenda for Peace," stressing that lasting peace and security are essential prerequisites for sustainable development.
Premier Sheikh Hasina underscored the significance of resolving regional disputes through dialogue while upholding mutual respect for national sovereignty and territorial integrity. She urged the Asia-Pacific region, particularly ASEAN, to intensify efforts to address the Rohingya crisis, emphasizing that regional connectivity and prosperity are incomplete without resolving this humanitarian issue originating from Myanmar.
Acknowledging Bangladesh's role in providing temporary shelter to Rohingya refugees, she noted the urgent need for their safe and dignified repatriation, emphasizing the risks posed by the delayed process to security within and beyond the region.
Prime Minister Hasina urged proactive engagement from the Asia-Pacific region, including ASEAN, in resolving the volatile situation in Myanmar to facilitate the Rohingya's safe return home.
On the economic front, she emphasized the region's solidarity in combating poverty and hunger, citing Bangladesh's significant progress in poverty reduction over the years and its commitment to eradicating extreme poverty by 2030.
Furthermore, PM Hasina stressed the importance of regional cooperation in addressing pressing environmental challenges such as the climate crisis, biodiversity loss, and transboundary pollution, calling for a united front in tackling these global issues.