Developing Country

Transforming Bangladesh into a Developing Nation: The Key Role of the New Budget

" Sheikh Hasina Backs Budget Amidst Challenges: Vision for a Prosperous Bangladesh Prevails "

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina expressed her endorsement of the proposed budget for the fiscal year 2023–24, affirming that it is suitable for propelling Bangladesh forward as a developing nation. Dismissing any concerns about its implementation, she emphasized that Bangladesh, being a developing country, has formulated an appropriate budget to facilitate its transformation.

These remarks were made by the prime minister during the inauguration of the Dhaka District Awami League Bhaban, which serves as the office for the Dhaka district and Dhaka north city branches of the Awami League. The inauguration ceremony evolved into a large gathering, with numerous enthusiastic Awami League leaders and activists from the Dhaka district and city convening to catch a glimpse of their party's leader.

As the President of the Awami League, Sheikh Hasina expressed confidence in the implementation of the budget, stating that the support of the country's people will enable its successful execution. She criticized those who harbor doubts regarding the implementation of such a substantial budget, which amounts to around Tk 7.62 lakh crore.

The Prime Minister underscored the ongoing commitment to raising the living standards of every individual, emphasizing that despite the skepticism voiced annually before the budget is passed, the government remains dedicated to its work. She reiterated her commitment to realizing the vision of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the Father of the Nation, to transform Bangladesh into a developed, prosperous, and "Smart Bangladesh" free from poverty and hunger by 2041.

Several notable figures, including Awami League General Secretary and Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader, Prime Minister's Private Industry and Investment Adviser Salman Fazlur Rahman, and Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan, among others, delivered speeches at the event. Prominent members of the Awami League, such as Deputy Leader of the House Begum Matia Chowdhury, Mostofa Jalal Mohiuddin, and Dhaka North City Corporation Mayor Atiqul Islam, were also present.

During her speech, Sheikh Hasina shared positive news with the public, announcing that agreements had been signed with Qatar and Oman. The government is also working on similar agreements with other countries to procure fuel for electricity generation, thereby alleviating the hardships caused by power cuts. She expressed satisfaction with the agreements made so far and highlighted the efforts to expand this initiative to other nations, enabling the importation of gas to ease the suffering of the people.

The Prime Minister acknowledged that electricity is readily available in every household, but due to rising oil and gas prices and a scarcity of coal, load-shedding remains a challenge. Importing fuel for electricity production has proven difficult for the government. Sheikh Hasina noted that even those who opposed coal-based power plants are now establishing them. She further explained that the global economic downturn and inflation resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and various sanctions have exacerbated the situation.

Sheikh Hasina asserted that if it were not for the pandemic, the Russia-Ukraine war, the economic recession, and the price hikes that have impacted the world, the people would not have to endure power shortages. While acknowledging the difficulty faced by citizens in tolerating power cuts, she emphasized that her government had successfully put an end to them. However, the prevailing global circumstances have forced this unfortunate situation to occur.