Nothing to be disappointed over country’s economic aspects: Dr Salehuddin

Finance adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed today said that there is nothing to be disappointed over the various aspects of the country’s economy.

“About the economy, I know very well what is happening inside. So, there is nothing to be disappointed,” he said.

The finance adviser was briefing reporters after chairing two separate meetings on the Advisers Council Committee on Economic Affairs and Government Purchase, held at the Cabinet Division Conference Room at Bangladesh Secretariat today.

When asked about Bangladesh’s preparations over the LDC graduation in 2026, he said that the government has been pursuing a Smooth Transition Strategy (STS) in this regard. “Smoot doesn’t mean a fall all on a sudden rather like the descent of an airplane and we’re approaching it,” 

The finance adviser said that many countries are looking forward to Bangladesh since the performance of the country is overall satisfactory despite some flaws. “Even many countries are saying that if we can do that, then they will become encouraged. We’ll also see that our pride will be increased. Perhaps some preparations may be needed, but we’re taking such preparations,”

Replying to another question, he said that the congestion in unloading of goods has been cleared at the Chattogram Port.

When asked about the availability of edible and soybean oil in the market, he said that the issue is under attention of the government, saying that the businessmen often pursue many ways …. “But, we’re trying our best in this regard. No matter the businessmen became clever, we’ll have to be more intelligent to deal with the situation,”

Replying to another question, the finance adviser said that the Ministry of Commerce has been advised to look into the matter while the ministry and also the commerce adviser are managing it properly.

When asked whether the recent statement on Bangladesh made by Director of National Intelligence of the US Tulsi Gabbard, would impact the bilateral relationship, Dr Salehuddin Ahmed said that it would not impact Bangladesh’s economy in terms of multilateral or bilateral relations.

Regarding a recent article on Bangladesh by a journalist from The Guardian, the finance adviser said, “Earlier, we were on the verge of a ditch. But, now we’ve turned around and moving forward”.

He also said, “They write a lot of things. Does everyone from outside know everything? They write with their own perspectives and opinions.”