Dhaka: Alleging that Bangladesh has adopted a subservient foreign policy over the Rohingya issue, noted writer and columnist Syed Abul Maksud on Thursday demanded that the policy be recast to end the crisis.

"Our foreign policy is not suitable for building a strong nation. The government will have to prove through its words and activities that Bangladesh is not weaker than Nepal, Sri Lanka and the Maldives," he said.

While addressing a press conference titled 'Rohingya crisis: A human issue' organised by Sushasoner Jonno Nagorik (Sujon) at Dhaka Reporters Unity, he also said no nation can gain self-respect through a subservient foreign policy.

Mentioning that there should be an end to the atrocities unleashed by Myanmar security forces on the Rohingya people in Rakhine state, the columnist said Bangladesh and Myanmar with the help of other countries can resolve the crisis.

Prof CR Abrar of International Relations department at Dhaka University accused the Myanmar government of committing genocide in Rakhine and unleashing state-backed terrorism.

He also criticised the Bangladesh government for proposing a joint drive with Myanmar armed forces along the border against insurgency.

At the press conference, Sujon placed an eight-point demand, including imposition of economic sanctions, on Myanmar.