Appendix I: Letter from Bangladesh Ambassador to the United States Mohammad Ziauddin December 8, 2020 RE: Bangladesh: Halt Rohingya Relocations to Remote Island Dear Sirs, Human Rights Watch’s recent article, “Bangladesh: Halt Rohingya Relocations to Remote Island,” mischaracterizes the relocation of Rohingya refugees to Bhasan Char and distorts the facts regarding the relocation process. Contrary to Human Rights Watch’s assertion, the Government of Bangladesh has planned and carried out the relocation process in a fully transparent manner. The Government made clear from the beginning that any relocation would be entirely voluntary. Accordingly, a number of Rohingya representatives undertook a “go and see” visit to Bhasan Char to survey the facilities and make an independent and informed choice. Some NGOs and journalists also visited the island. All of them expressed their high satisfaction at the available facilities on Bhasan Char. Moreover, the relocation was preceded by adequate preparations and consultations with stakeholders. Several rounds of discussions, based on the queries of the United Nations, were also arranged and we hope that the international community and the United Nations, as per its mandate, will be involved in the process soon. Simply put, no Rohingya refugee was “forced” to relocate to Bhasan Char. In a recent interview with The Associated Press, Syed Alam, a 32-year-old refugee, said, “I have seen a video of the island. I have seen concrete buildings there... I think my family will have a better accommodation there.” Mr. Alam is correct. The Government of Bangladesh has worked hard to ensure that all modern amenities are provided to Rohingya on Bhasan Char, including healthcare. The 13,000-acre island has year-round fresh water, an uninterrupted supply of electricity, agricultural plots, cyclone shelters, two hospitals, four community clinics, mosques, warehouses, telecommunication services, a police station, recreation and learning centers, playgrounds and more. The Government of Bangladesh has ensured adequate supply of food along with proper sanitation and medical facilities for Rohingyas on Bhasan Char. Proper hospitals with highly qualified health professionals, adequate COVID testing and treatment facilities are in place. In addition to Government agencies, about 22 NGOs are there to extend all possible support to the 59 HUMAN RIGHTS WATCH | JUNE 2021