We want ICJ case to succeed

Gambian Foreign Minister (FM) Mamadou Tangara called on Chief Adviser (CA) Professor Muhammad Yunus at the State Guest House Jamuna in Dhaka on Wednesday.

The Gambian FM informed the CA about the genocide case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) against Myanmar that his country instituted and was pursuing to bring justice for the much-persecuted Rohingya Muslims, said a spokesman of the CA Office.

"I can assure you that the president of Gambia is supporting the matter and looking into it. We want to put this issue back on the map. The President of Gambia and the Gambian people are committed to this cause," Tangara said.

Professor Yunus thanked Gambia for taking up the cause of the Rohingya people as well as for the African nation's persistent commitment and continued efforts for successful fruition of the case.

"We want this case to succeed. We want your support. It is a big help for us."

The CA highlighted Dhaka's efforts to mobilise aid for the Rohingya people along with his calls to support humanitarian aid in Rakhine, including food and medical assistance to the displaced people, and to stop more people from fleeing across the border to Bangladesh.

He also called for deeper trade ties and cooperation between the two nations.

Mamadou Tangara praised the leadership of Professor Yunus, saying his diplomatic efforts would help the Rohingya people live a dignified life. "With your aura, the international community will always be with you."

The FM also wished the CA success in his new role as the head of Bangladesh's interim government. "We wish you every success in your noble work and challenging mission," he added.

The two leaders also expressed satisfaction at signing an agreement to work together in the United Nations peacekeeping operations.

They also discussed the potential of microcredit to lift millions of people out of poverty in Africa as well as usher in peace and stability in the violence-plagued regions of the continent.

Dr Khalilur Rahman, High Representative of the CA for Rohingya and other key issues, and Lamiya Morshed, senior secretary and head of SDG affairs of the government, were also present during the meeting.

mirmostafiz@yahoo.com