Dhaka, Mar 04 (V7N) – Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed has said that the government has implemented various special initiatives to create rural employment opportunities and inject dynamism into the economy.
“The current interim government has taken multiple steps to keep production processes running in mills and factories, while also creating employment opportunities,” he said.
Dr Salehuddin Ahmed shared these remarks during a recent interview with BSS.
“Since assuming office, we have focused on creating employment opportunities, particularly by providing support to small and medium enterprises (SMEs), as this sector has the potential to generate significant employment,” he noted.
The finance adviser, who is also the former central bank governor, explained that there have been challenges regarding financing for this sector. In response, Bangladesh Bank has been directed to increase lending to CMSMEs, recognizing their vital role in the national economy.
“Additionally, smaller projects have been included in the Annual Development Program (ADP) to create rural employment, such as local infrastructure, bridges, culverts, and environmental projects that will help generate more jobs,” he added.
Citing that the country’s economy has seen a partial turnaround, the finance adviser said that dynamism has already been infused, though the private sector is still taking a wait-and-see approach to some extent.
“However, they have not come to a complete standstill. They are awaiting more support, especially financial assistance. We are also working to simplify access to finance, streamline tax procedures, and facilitate more imports, particularly machinery, through the opening of LCs,” he explained.
Dr Salehuddin also mentioned that steps have already been taken to combat money laundering. The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) and Bangladesh Bank are working together to investigate money laundering activities, with several large companies involved.
“The task force responsible for this is actively gathering information from various sources. This process will take some time, as financial crime is a complex issue. We are also tracking where the laundered money has gone, whether to Singapore or other destinations. If we do not follow legal procedures, we will not receive support from foreign countries. A British company will assist us with technical aspects, and other entities have also offered their support,” he added.
The finance adviser confirmed that the government has already begun efforts to recover and repatriate the laundered money, with investigations currently ongoing into 11 to 12 major companies involved.
END/MSS/AJ
Comment: