The World Bank has pledged continued support for Bangladesh’s ongoing development projects as well as future budgetary assistance, according to Finance Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed.
Following a meeting with Johannes Zutt, the World Bank’s newly appointed Vice President for the South Asia Region, Salehuddin told reporters that the global lender is pleased with Bangladesh’s current economic situation.
“The World Bank expressed satisfaction with our economy and said things are going well in areas like the financial sector, balance of payments, and foreign exchange management,” said the finance adviser at the Secretariat on Sunday.
Zutt, who previously served as the World Bank’s country director in Bangladesh 15 years ago, praised the country’s progress, particularly in infrastructure development such as the metro rail system.
“He said Bangladesh has changed remarkably since his last posting here, and assured that the World Bank will continue to provide all necessary support,” Salehuddin added.
During the meeting, Zutt emphasized the importance of strengthening the private sector and attracting more Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). He also welcomed ongoing reforms in the banking sector, led by Bangladesh Bank.
“The macroeconomic indicators are on the right track,” Zutt reportedly said, according to Salehuddin.
Asked about the U.S. tariff issue, the finance adviser said the commerce adviser would provide a full briefing after returning from Washington. “We’ll look into tariff adjustments and tax policy issues based on that discussion,” he noted.
The meeting also covered the role of the International Finance Corporation (IFC), with discussions on support for infrastructure, including development at Chattogram Port and a proposed container terminal at Laldia.
Salehuddin said the interim government has received the support it requested from the World Bank and will raise further expectations during the upcoming World Bank-IMF Annual Meetings in October.
He also confirmed that the World Bank is satisfied with ongoing reform efforts, including those in the National Board of Revenue (NBR).
Johannes Zutt arrived in Dhaka on Saturday on a four-day official visit to the South Asian nation.