India's External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Sunday said that rapid socio-economic and infrastructure development of Myanmar's Rakhine State is the only long term solution to the Rohingya crisis.
"It is clear that normalcy will only be restored with the return of the displaced persons to Rakhine state. In our view, the only long term solution to the situation in Rakhine State is rapid socio-economic and infrastructure development that would have a positive impact on all the communities living in the State," Swaraj said after a joint consultative committee meeting to discuss India-Bangladesh ties here.
Swaraj emphasised that India also supported the recommendations of Rakhine Advisory Commission, headed by former Secretary-General of the United Nations (UNSG) Kofi Annan.
While Swaraj expressed deep concern at the spate of violence in Rakhine State, she stated that India is committed to provide provide financial and technical assistance for identified projects to be undertaken in Rakhine State in conjunction with the local authorities of Myanmar.
"We have urged that the situation be handled with restraint, keeping in mind the welfare of the population," Swaraj said.
Swaraj further highlighted 'Operation Insaniyat' launched in September by the Indian government to support Bangladesh, which has sheltered lakhs of Rohingya refugees, who have fled violence in Myanmar since August 25.
"Through this operation, we have supplied essential requirements by way of parboiled rice, dal, salt, sugar, cooking oil, tea, milk powder, mosquito nets and soap to about 300,000 displaced persons. The material has been distributed to the intended recipients through the Bangladeshi district administration in Cox's Bazar," she said.