Kite festival held in Cox's Bazar in solidarity with Rohingya refugees

A kite festival was organised in Cox's Bazar sea beach today to bring people together and celebrate the solidarity shown to Rohingya refugees hosted in Bangladesh.

UNHCR, the UN refugee agency together with Cox's Bazar authorities, the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society and Artolution, arranged the festival.

Building on the generosity of the Cox's Bazar residents, the event echoed messages of friendship and empathy, UNHCR said in a statement.

Inspired by Bangladeshi tradition, the festival reflected the culture of unity as hundreds flew kites carrying messages of solidarity with the refugees.

"Today we want to raise and fly our kites to remind ourselves that we were all children once and we all had hopes and dreams. We look forward to building capacities of refugee children to help them to return home safely and contribute to the long-term recovery and reconstruction of their communities in Myanmar, when it is safe to do so," said Yoko Akasaka, the principal situation coordinator of UNHCR in Cox's Bazar.

"We reiterate our commitment to continue working with the government of Bangladesh as well as for the people of Cox's Bazar," she added.

The programme became more vibrant with murals painted live by participants, a music performance by Rohingya refugees, and local food made by Bangladeshi entrepreneurs, showing how art and culture can inspire peace.

"This kite festival reminds me of my childhood. I am so happy to see this. The joy I see on people's faces is incredible and I think such programmes need to be organised frequently. This builds friendship and solidarity", said Md Zillur Rahman, superintendent of Tourist Police in Cox's Bazar, after flying a kite.

Shahinul Haque Marshal, chairman of Cox's Bazar District Council said, "I am delighted to see this kite festival taking place in our city where we cherish diversity and solidarity."

"I request the organisers to organise such events more frequently and help us move forward with our tradition and culture," he added.