President Mohammed Shahabuddin called upon New Zealand to actively engage in international forums to address the Rohingya crisis. He made this appeal during a farewell meeting with New Zealand's High Commissioner to Bangladesh, David Pine, at Bangabhaban. The president expressed gratitude to Pine for his successful tenure in Bangladesh.

Highlighting the longstanding bilateral relations between Bangladesh and New Zealand, President Shahabuddin emphasized the potential for further collaboration, particularly in trade and investment. He underscored the importance of reciprocal visits between the two nations to explore these opportunities.

Addressing the Rohingya crisis, the president acknowledged Bangladesh's humanitarian efforts in sheltering over a million Rohingya refugees but stressed the increasing pressure this crisis poses on the country. He urged New Zealand to actively engage in international forums to facilitate the dignified repatriation of Rohingya refugees to Myanmar.

President Shahabuddin also mentioned New Zealand's attractiveness as a destination for Bangladeshi students seeking higher education. He expressed hope for enhanced educational opportunities for Bangladeshi students in New Zealand in the future.

During the meeting, the outgoing New Zealand High Commissioner expressed appreciation for Bangladesh's cooperation and discussed plans to further expand educational opportunities for Bangladeshis in New Zealand. Secretaries from the president's office were also present during the discussion.