Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury has said the government has initiated a coordinated effort to bring back money allegedly laundered abroad, signalling a broader push to stabilise the economy and restore financial discipline.
Speaking to reporters on Friday at his residence in Katoli during his first visit to Chattogram after assuming charge as Finance and Planning Minister, he said the recovery process would involve both government-to-government engagement and collaboration with specialised professional firms.
“We have already held discussions with relevant professional companies. Through joint efforts, we will try to recover as much of the siphoned-off funds as possible,” he said.
Outlining priorities for the upcoming national budget, the adviser said the government intends to move away from patronage-based economic practices and ensure wider public participation in economic growth.
“The benefits of development must reach ordinary citizens. The next budget will create opportunities for people to actively participate in the country’s economic progress,” he said, adding that inclusivity and equitable distribution would guide fiscal planning.
Describing the current economic condition as challenging, Khasru cited rising poverty indicators, declining private investment, lower capital imports and sluggish employment generation.
“The economy is in a difficult position. We want to free it from excessive regulation and ensure that it serves the broader interests of the people,” he said.
He also referred to mounting debt pressures, alleging that significant loans had been taken for projects that failed to generate expected returns.
“The burden of debts incurred without productive investment now rests on the present government. Addressing this will be a complex task,” he added.
On the stock market, the adviser said a recent uptick in indices was encouraging but insufficient to ensure long-term stability.
He indicated that reforms would be undertaken in laws and regulatory frameworks governing the capital market, including measures to strengthen transparency and accountability.
“Restoring investor confidence is crucial. There will be no compromise on transparency,” he said, expressing hope that reforms would attract domestic and foreign investment, boost industrial growth, expand employment and help stabilise commodity prices.
Later in the day, the adviser held a meeting with stakeholders associated with Chattogram Port at his Mehedibag residence.
MDIH/MHK