State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir on Sunday appreciated Japan's efforts toward achieving a durable solution through the safe, voluntary, sustainable, and dignified repatriation of the Rohingyas to Rakhine State in Myanmar.

He also appreciated the Nippon Foundation and Japan's humanitarian assistance for the forcibly displaced Myanmar nationals.

The State Minister said Bangladesh remains firmly committed to working with the international community to resolve this prolonged humanitarian and regional challenge.

He made the remarks when Honorary Chair of the Nippon Foundation of Japan Yohei Sasakawa paid a courtesy call on him at his office.

During the meeting, Yohei Sasakawa mentioned that the relationship between the Nippon Foundation and the People's Republic of Bangladesh is built upon a history of profound friendship and mutual trust that spans over half a century, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

“Our cooperative efforts began in 1971 with emergency relief for displaced persons during your nation's independence,” he said.

"Since then, we have consistently stood by the people of Bangladesh, supporting various developmental, healthcare, and educational initiatives. In recent years, our attention has been heavily dedicated to the Rohingya humanitarian crisis," Sasakawa noted.

He informed the State Minister that for over 40 years, he and his organisation have been closely involved in efforts to eliminate leprosy, working in close cooperation with the World Health Organization (WHO), governments, international organizations and NGOs, and organizations of persons affected by leprosy.

They wish to assist leprosy patients in Bangladesh.