Momen calls for commonwealth solidarity

Foreign Minister Dr Momen urges for Commonwealth solidarity for smooth repatriation of the FDMNs, boost-up intra-Commonwealth trade, vaccine equity and result-oriented climate action.

Commonwealth leaders commended Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s humanitarian role in taking bold decision to give shelter to a huge number of Forcibly displaced Myanmar nationals (FDMN) and thus saving thousands of innocent lives, and her leadership of the Climate Vulnerable Forum (CVF).

They made these comments during the 21st Commonwealth Foreign Affairs Ministers’ meeting (CFAMM) held virtually in London on Thursday, said a press release.

Leading the Bangladesh delegation, Foreign Minister Dr Momen highlighted the current impasse over the FDMNs voluntary repatriation to Myanmar and their partial relocation to Bhashan Char.

He urged that Commonwealth to assist in persuading the government of Myanmar to follow their commitments.

Momen informed the Commonwealth leaders of the initiatives undertaken as the chair of the Climate Vulnerable Forum (CVF).

The minister also called upon further collaboration between the Commonwealth and the CVF.

Momen urged the Commonwealth member states to stand together more than ever for trade and economic recovery which was hampered due to the Covid pandemic.

He also called upon the post-pandemic Commonwealth to demonstrate Commonwealth solidarity, connectivity and collective action to build back a more resilient, greener and sustainable post-Covid recovery.

The UK Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs Elizabeth Truss chaired the meeting where Commonwealth secretary-general and foreign ministers from its member countries were present, the release added.

Prior to this meeting, the Commonwealth Ministerial Group on Guyana was held on September 14, which was chaired by Abdul Momen.