Dhaka, Apr 16 (V7N) – Trade Advisor Sheikh Bashiruddin has stated that the interim government has already repaid over Tk 50,000 crore in foreign debt, despite the difficult economic conditions inherited from the previous administration. He made the remarks during a press briefing at the Secretariat on Wednesday (April 16) afternoon.

Accusing the previous Awami League government of being fascist, Bashiruddin said that all institutional structures were destroyed before August 5, which has led to enduring economic challenges. “The overall economy is still facing problems due to the misguided policies of the previous government,” he said.

Despite these difficulties, the trade advisor expressed cautious optimism. “Inflation is gradually declining. If the Boro paddy harvest is completed over the next two months, we expect relief in the rice market,” he added.

Bashiruddin also raised concerns over unilateral tariffs imposed by the United States, one of Bangladesh’s key trading partners. “The U.S. is a country with high exports and low imports, and the current tariff measures are worrisome,” he said, pointing out that Bangladesh has a trade deficit of approximately $6 billion with the United States.

He confirmed that a government delegation will visit the U.S. soon to discuss tariff-related issues, in an effort to improve trade conditions and resolve ongoing disputes.

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