Economic challenges lie ahead for next elected government, finance adviser says

Finance Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed has cautioned that major economic challenges lie ahead for the next elected government, noting that while the interim administration has managed to bring relative stability to the economy, further reforms are needed.

He made the remarks on Monday while speaking at the annual conference of Sonali Bank held at a convention centre in Dhaka.

"The interim government has tried to stabilise the economy to some extent and addressed several challenges. However, the challenges ahead are much bigger," Salehuddin said.

He added that the reforms initiated during the interim period would provide a foundation for the next government, but future challenges would require more careful and tactful handling.

Advising Sonali Bank officials to maintain professionalism during the tenure of an elected political government, the adviser said pressure from political quarters is inevitable.

"You cannot say 'no' directly. You need to develop negotiation skills and explain economic policies, banking laws, and audit norms," he added.