Dhaka: As media reports circulate about Myanmar’s alleged agreement to repatriate 300,000 Rohingyas from Bangladesh, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam clarified on Thursday that no discussions have taken place between the two governments regarding this matter.

According to United News of Bangladesh, Shama Obaed Islam addressed reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stating that while such a development would be welcomed by Bangladesh, no concrete discussions or agreements have been made. “It will be very good news. I do not know anything specific yet,” she commented, emphasizing the ongoing communication with Myanmar.

The media reports originated from Malaysian outlets, which quoted Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim claiming that Myanmar has agreed to accept 300,000 Rohingya refugees from Bangladesh. In addition, Anwar noted that Myanmar has agreed to repatriate 5,000 Rohingyas from Malaysia. “That is why it is important to maintain good relations with Myanmar. They have now agreed to take back 5,000 Rohingya from Malaysia and 300,000 Rohingya from Bangladesh to Myanmar,” Anwar stated, as reported by The Star.

Anwar Ibrahim made these remarks during a meeting with local voters in Chennah on Wednesday, highlighting the importance of diplomacy in achieving such agreements. Meanwhile, Bangladesh continues to host over 1.3 million Rohingyas in Cox’s Bazar and Bhasan Char Island.