Sat Mar 15 06:09:25 UTC 2025: ## UN Chief Guterres Condemns Planned Rohingya Aid Cuts During Bangladesh Visit
**Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh –** UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres concluded a “Ramadan Solidarity” visit to Bangladesh, expressing deep concern over planned cuts to humanitarian aid for Rohingya refugees and urging the international community to prevent them. During his visit (March 13-16), Guterres met with Rohingya refugees in Cox’s Bazar, sharing an Iftar meal with approximately 60,000 individuals. He heard firsthand accounts of their hardships, including anxieties over the impending reduction in monthly food rations from $12.50 to $6.
Guterres pledged to do everything in his power to stop the funding cuts, emphasizing the unacceptable nature of reduced support during the holy month of Ramadan. He warned that the cuts would lead to immense suffering and potential loss of life. He directly addressed the refugees, stating his commitment to advocate for continued international support until the crisis is resolved.
Beyond his work with the Rohingya community, Guterres held discussions with Bangladeshi officials, including Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus and Foreign Adviser Md Towhid Hossain. These meetings focused on Bangladesh’s domestic issues, its reform process, and the ongoing situation in Rakhine state, Myanmar. The UN Secretary-General also reiterated his support for the upcoming high-level conference on Rohingya and other minorities in Myanmar. Guterres’ visit underscores the urgency of the Rohingya crisis and the need for sustained international assistance.
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