Chandpur, Jan 19 (V7N) — Financial Adviser Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed on Monday said that the country’s economy is no longer in a fragile condition, noting that foreign exchange reserves have increased significantly from $18 billion to $32 billion.

He made the remarks while responding to journalists’ questions after inaugurating a ‘Yes’ vote campaign fair for the upcoming referendum at Hasan Ali School Ground in Chandpur city on Monday afternoon.

Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed said that during the tenure of the previous government, the foreign exchange market faced severe turbulence. “That situation has now been resolved. The dollar market has stabilized and the flow of remittances has returned to a satisfactory level,” he said.

Referring to public sector salaries, the financial adviser said that no comprehensive work had been done on the pay scale of government officials and employees over the past 10 years. “We have formed a pay commission, and work is currently underway,” he added.

He attributed the rise in foreign exchange reserves to a series of economic recovery initiatives taken by the government. “As a result of these measures, reserves have increased from $18 billion to $32 billion,” he said.

Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed emphasized that implementing a new pay scale requires not only financial resources but also alignment with market realities. “A significant amount of money is needed. If the economy continues to strengthen, the implementation of the pay scale will become feasible,” he said, adding that the elected government would take the matter forward in the future.

Taking a firm stance against corruption, the financial adviser said the government is committed to ensuring good governance and accountability. “We do not want corruption. We want an accountable system of governance that the next generation can benefit from,” he said.

Addressing misconceptions surrounding the ‘yes’ vote in the referendum, Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed said there is no scope for misinterpretation. “Many believe that the ‘yes’ vote reflects the agenda of a particular political party. In reality, it is suitable for all democratic parties and is a pathway to ensuring good governance,” he said.

He further noted that reforms are needed not only in governance but also in key sectors such as education, health, culture and religion to ensure sustainable national development.

END/SMA/AJ