Dhaka: The White Paper report has put forward a proposal for the government to prioritize the implementation of all foreign-funded Annual Development Programme (ADP) projects. It emphasizes that special attention should be directed towards projects nearing completion, particularly those over 85% completed by June 2025, which can swiftly contribute to economic stability, private investment, and job creation. According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dr. Debapriya Bhattacharya, head of the committee and a distinguished fellow of the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD), unveiled the report's findings at a press conference today at the NEC Conference Room located in the capital's Sher-e-Bangla Nagar area. The event was attended by concerned committee members, who underscored the significance of the proposals. The report highlights the necessity of addressing the challenges posed by declining foreign exchange reserves. It points out that multilateral and bilateral concessional loans offer a valuable opportunity for cost-effective financing. However, the successful acquisition of these external funds will depend heavily on improving the design and implementation capacities of government agencies. Additionally, the report suggests that the upcoming budget should initiate efforts to tackle educational disparities and enhance healthcare infrastructure, especially in rural areas. Expanding access to Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) aligned with market demand could significantly benefit the country's workforce. The government is also urged to prioritize renewable energy projects by offering fiscal incentives to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Moreover, the mobilization and allocation of new funds for climate resilience programs are deemed crucial for addressing environmental vulnerabilities. This balanced approach aims to pave the way for a more equitable and sustainable future for all citizens. The report also notes that the national budget for FY2025-26 offers a valuable opportunity for the Inter im Government to demonstrate its commitment to implementing short-term reforms while establishing a robust medium-term agenda in public finance management.
