The interim government is leaving the country with foreign exchange reserves of $29 billion and enough resources to cover at least six months of food imports, Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam said on Sunday. He made the remarks during a press conference held after the Advisory Council meeting at the Foreign Service Academy on Bailey Road in Dhaka.
Shafiqul Alam stated that when Professor Muhammad Yunus assumed office on August 5, 2024, the country’s foreign exchange reserves were just $15 billion, while the banking sector was practically stagnant and several banks had gone bankrupt. Thanks to the measures taken by the current government, the reserves have now increased to $29 billion.
He added that the reserves being handed over are sufficient to cover the cost of at least six months of food imports, ensuring that the country’s overall economic system is being transferred in a more stable condition.
On the issue of human rights, Shafiqul Alam claimed that there have been no enforced disappearances in the last 18 months. He noted that the government has had to confront activities of “fascist elements,” but despite the challenging circumstances, it has carried out reforms in various sectors and established the necessary legal frameworks.
The Press Secretary also highlighted that during its tenure, the interim government made progress in economic recovery, reviving the banking sector, and implementing administrative reforms, marking significant achievements in key areas of governance.
