Govt to strike new loan deal with IMF

Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury has said the government is contemplating striking a loan deal with the IMF that could be deemed pro-people.

"Our main concern is not obtaining loan money, but rather protecting the country's interests. The government will enter into a new program with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) only after ensuring the interests of the people and the country's economic security. We will not participate in any program that undermines the interests of the people."

The Finance Minister's remarks came after a meeting with a delegation of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) at the Secretariat, Sunday.

Amir Khosru claimed that the IMF program taken by the previous government had many conditions that were against public interest and unacceptable for a democratic and elected government. This is why the current government has withdrawn from that program. However, in the new program under discussion, the interests of the people of Bangladesh will be one hundred percent protected.

"Whatever program we join, there will be no compromise with the country's economy and the interests of the people," said Amir Khosru.

The Finance Minister has announced plans to modernize and simplify the country's existing visa policy to boost foreign investment and tourism. He stated, "To build a modern Bangladesh, the current visa policy needs to be revised. The policy will be made easier and more up-to-date. If the visa policy is modernized, the number of foreign tourists will increase, investors will be able to come to Bangladesh more easily, and confidence in Bangladesh in the international arena will be further strengthened."

Meanwhile, the Finance Minister expressed deep grief over the death of former Speaker of the National Parliament and former Acting President Barrister Jamir Uddin Sarkar. He said, Barrister Jamir Uddin Sircar was an honest, competent, and dedicated politician. As Speaker of the National Parliament, he performed his duties with integrity and efficiency. His death is an irreparable loss to the country's political arena.