Dhaka: The government could prioritize developing a two-year mid-term planning format, designed to be flexible and extendable as needed. 'This approach would facilitate the preparation of a Mid-Term Budgetary Framework (MTBF) while ensuring policy continuity, predictability, and credibility - key to maintaining trust with international development partners, lenders, and stakeholders,' said the report. According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the head of the committee and distinguished fellow of the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD), Dr. Debapriya Bhattacharya, revealed the findings of the 399-page report at a press conference held at the NEC Conference Room in the city's Sher-e-Bangla Nagar area today. Other committee members were present to discuss the detailed recommendations and insights provided in the document. The report highlighted the critical importance of conducting an independent and substantive evaluation of goal delivery during the elapsed plan period, following the suspension of the 8th Five-Y ear Plan (2020-2025). It stressed that while the interim government is expected to have a limited tenure, a five-year plan might not be realistic. However, a medium-term outlook, spanning 2-3 years, is deemed necessary for budgetary predictability and effective management of international development finance. Moreover, the report emphasized that the mid-term strategy should provide a developmental roadmap that aligns with national priorities while maintaining the flexibility to address emerging challenges. Such a format would not only strengthen engagement with international development partners but also ensure that external assistance is directed towards key areas, including infrastructure development, social sector investments, and environmental sustainability. By aligning domestic priorities with international support, the proposed mid-term planning format aims to enhance Bangladesh's developmental trajectory. It seeks to build a strong foundation for long-term partnerships and progress, ultimately contr ibuting to the country's sustainable growth and development.
