Dhaka, Sep 27 (V7N): UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi has called for a fresh approach to addressing the Rohingya crisis, urging the global community to increase efforts in alleviating the suffering of over one million Rohingya refugees living in camps in Bangladesh.

Grandi held discussions on the issue with Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus at a hotel in New York on Thursday.

He highlighted the persistent challenges faced by Rohingya refugees amid the complex political transition in Bangladesh.

"I assured Dr. Muhammad Yunus of UNHCR's full commitment to mobilizing international support," Grandi said.

Grandi added that Professor Yunus's assumption of leadership in Bangladesh has drawn global attention to the crisis, sparking hopes for increased humanitarian funding.

“The $700 million pledged by the World Bank is a strong start,” he noted, also mentioning that the UN is prepared to offer more support, particularly in educating Rohingya children.

Professor Yunus emphasized the urgency of finding a swift solution to the crisis, stressing the importance of securing the future of hundreds of thousands of Rohingya children growing up in refugee camps.

"We must resolve this before it’s too late. A solution is imperative," the chief adviser remarked.

Later on Thursday, Gilbert Houngbo, Director General of the International Labour Organization (ILO), met with the Chief Adviser at the same hotel.

Houngbo offered the ILO's support in aiding the interim government’s efforts to implement ILO conventions in Bangladesh.

“We are at your service," Houngbo said, assuring the ILO’s assistance whenever needed.

Professor Yunus reiterated that labour reforms are a top priority for his government, as they are crucial to transforming Bangladesh into a leading global manufacturing hub.

“We are taking this very seriously," Yunus stated, adding that resolving labour issues would attract more foreign direct investment to Bangladesh.

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