Humanitarian corridor is a matter of Bangladesh and Myanmar: Gwyn Lewis

United Nations Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh Gwyn Lewis has said whether there will be a humanitarian corridor in Rakhine or not will depend on the governments of Bangladesh and Myanmar. It can be implemented only if the governments of Bangladesh and Myanmar agree.

Gwyn Lewis made the remark at a discussion hosted by the Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh (DCAB) at the National Press Club in the capital on Wednesday.

Regarding which is more important - elections or reforms - Gwyn Lewis said that the people of the country will decide which is more important.

She also said the UN supports the Bangladesh government’s ongoing reform initiatives, though the nature and extent of those reforms remain entirely within the government’s jurisdiction.

Lewis said the UN wants the Rohingya to return to their homeland with their rights. The current situation in Myanmar poses a major challenge to the repatriation of the Rohingya.

She clarified that the UN does not take a political position on internal party matters. “The UN is not involved in politics. These questions should be directed to the government and political parties,” she said. 

She reiterated that the UN remains ready to offer technical assistance to the Election Commission, but would not play any role in determining the election schedule. 

DCAB President AKM Moinuddin and General Secretary Md Arifuzzaman Mamun also spoke at the event.