Dhaka, Sept. 17 -- Despite failing to make any inroads in the seven and a half months since the junta assumed power, Momen remains hopeful about sending the refugees back to their homeland.

Addressing the issue on Thursday, Momen said, "As you know from the tripartite talks with China, we have no direct relationship with the new military government in Myanmar."

The two neighbouring countries had signed an agreement over the repatriation of the Rohingya refugees about four years ago. At the time, Myanmar was ruled by the civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi. But the efforts to send the refugees back fell flat twice in 2019, as the Rohingya outright refused to return.

Hopes of sending the refugees back home were rekindled earlier ...