Dhaka, Feb 19 (V7N) — Eminent economist and Honorary Fellow of the Centre for Policy Dialogue, Debapriya Bhattacharya, has urged the government to scrutinize agreements signed by the previous interim administration with foreign countries, saying they should be reassessed for compatibility with current policy priorities.

He made the remarks while speaking at a programme organized by the Citizens’ Platform in the capital on Thursday morning.

Call for Review and Possible Revisions

Dr. Bhattacharya said both known and undisclosed agreements should be examined to determine whether they align with the present government’s plans. If inconsistencies are found, he suggested the government should consider revising or even cancelling them.

He also noted that if the government can initiate steps to defer Bangladesh’s transition from Least Developed Country (LDC) status, it can similarly review major policy decisions taken by the interim administration. According to him, a dedicated transition team could be formed for this purpose.

LDC Transition and Policy Direction

Referring to recent developments, he said a letter had already been sent to the United Nations Headquarters seeking a postponement of the LDC graduation timeline.

Dr. Bhattacharya emphasized the need for a cautious and strategic approach, saying the government must decide whether it wants to “sprint or run a marathon,” stressing patience before implementing its 180-day action plan. He cautioned against introducing major measures within the current fiscal year.

Criticism of Interim Government

The economist also criticized the previous interim administration, claiming its “major failure” was the absence of a clear strategy paper outlining economic reforms. He added that the planning process remained incomplete even as key officials departed near the end of the tenure.

His remarks come amid ongoing debates over economic direction and policy continuity as the new government begins setting its priorities.

END/SMA/AJ