Dhaka: Finance Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury emphasized the need for an inclusive economic framework in Bangladesh, advocating for policies that engage citizens from all walks of life. He articulated this vision during a reception at the Finance Ministry, addressing the importance of crafting economic strategies that ensure equitable participation and benefit across different social strata.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Finance Minister highlighted the necessity of creating a level playing field within the economy. He stressed that opportunities should be accessible to every Bangladeshi, allowing them to partake in and benefit from the nation’s economic growth. Addressing the reception for the newly-appointed Minister and State Minister, he called for economic policies that reflect the changing public mindset post-August 5 mass uprising.
Khasru, who also serves as the Minister for Planning, underscored the urgent need to rehabilitate and reinforce state institutions currently operating under diminished capacity. The Finance Ministry’s press release quoted him emphasizing professionalism, transparency, and efficiency as critical components for institutional recovery.
Further, the Finance Minister advocated for transforming the existing patronage-based economy into a democratic one, highlighting deregulation and liberalization as crucial steps. He suggested that economic diversity beyond manufacturing, encompassing sectors like sports and culture, is vital for sustainable growth.
In his speech, Khasru pointed to the potential of traditional cottage industries, such as the production of shital pati in Barishal, which could be enhanced through training, credit access, and online marketing, thus expanding market reach and product variety.
State Minister for Finance and Planning Zonayed Saki also addressed the event, aligning the economic system with Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s 31-point outline and advocating for a democratic economic order. Both ministers called for cooperation from all levels of officials to propel Bangladesh’s economy forward.
The event was attended by notable figures including the Governor of Bangladesh Bank Ahsan H Mansur, Finance Division Secretary Dr. Md Khairuzzaman Mozumder, and various division secretaries under the Finance Ministry.