Dhaka, Jan 26 (V7N) — The government is actively working to bring back laundered money, engaging top consultancy agencies and discussing the issue with international leaders, according to Shafiqul Alam, Press Secretary to the Chief Advisor.

Addressing a press briefing at the Foreign Service Academy on Sunday afternoon, Shafiqul Alam emphasised that the stolen funds belong to the people of Bangladesh and have been illicitly transferred to various developed countries. He noted that Nobel laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus has also been advocating for the recovery of these funds during his interactions with global leaders, including Swiss officials. However, Alam acknowledged that the process is inherently slow.

On the garment sector, Shafiqul Alam refuted claims of declining exports, stating that Bangladesh's export figures have shown consistent growth in recent months. "Exports increased by 7% in September, 16–18% in October, 22% in November, and about 18% in December," he reported, adding that increased exports have contributed to job creation despite challenges posed by factory closures.

He criticised factory owners who have fled, leaving the government to shoulder the responsibility of unpaid workers. "These owners have stolen from banks and are now living lavishly while the government manages the fallout," Alam remarked.

The press secretary also highlighted the Chief Advisor's speech at the ASEAN forum, where Bangladesh expressed interest in joining the regional bloc. Discussions with ASEAN included addressing the Rohingya crisis, with plans underway for a major conference co-hosted by the United Nations and Bangladesh. Over 70 countries and agencies are expected to participate in this event.

Alam further revealed that the Chief Advisor held a productive meeting with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. "This meeting is set to open new commercial opportunities between Bangladesh and Germany," he said. Chancellor Scholz has committed to sending a business delegation and a special delegation to Bangladesh to engage with policymakers and trade representatives.

The government remains committed to addressing critical national issues while strengthening Bangladesh’s position on the global stage, Alam concluded.

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