The Norwegian government on Thursday signed an agreement with UNDP for the period 2019-2021 showing its strong commitment to foster peace and harmony in Rohingya camps and host communities in Cox’s Bazar district.

Sidsel Bleken, Norwegian Ambassador to Bangladesh and Sudipto Mukerjee, Resident Representative, UNDP Bangladesh signed the agreement worth 6.5 million Norwegian Kroner on behalf of their respective organisations, the UNB reported.

Under this agreement UNDP will do a research to understand drivers of social tensions in Rohingya camps and in host communities in Cox’s Bazar district affected by the Rohingya crisis since August 2017.

The research findings will better inform and support UN programming on early warning of any conflict and prevention and partnership with the Government of Bangladesh, says UNDP.

During the signing, Sudipto Mukerjee said Norway has always been a vital partner in UNDP’s mission to achieve the goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

‘This initiative will strengthen our development work in Cox’s Bazar after Rohingya crisis and help us to promote peace and tolerance in the camps and host communities.’

Sidsel Bleken said they continue their support for implementation and monitoring of SDG 16: peace, justice and strong institutions around the world.

‘After the Rohingya crisis in 2017, Norwegian government has been working closely with Bangladesh government along with the international community for resolving the issue,’ she said.

‘The agreement we signed today, hopefully will pave the way for a peaceful and inclusive society in Cox’s Bazar.’

The agreement is a part of UNDP’s broader ‘Partnerships for a Tolerant, Inclusive Bangladesh’ (PTIB) project, which promotes diverse and constructive narratives already present in the country in support of tolerance.

Among others Morshed Ahmed, Senior Adviser, Royal Norwegian Embassy and Robert Stoelman, Senior Programme Manager, PTIB project of UNDP were present in the signing ceremony.