Highlights
- Govt is effectively following an “America First” policy
- US trade deal termed “against national interest”
- Criticism of Boeing aircraft purchase decision
- Claims key institutions were sidelined in major agreements
- Calls for investigation into those involved
- Demands white paper on interim government actions
Economist Anu Muhammad has alleged that the government’s actions reflect an “America First” approach, despite its stated commitment to prioritising national interests.
Speaking at a discussion in Dhaka today (2 May), he said, “Although Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has spoken of a ‘Bangladesh First’ policy, in reality, the activities suggest that the government is operating on an ‘America First’ policy.”
Anu Muhammad, also a member of the Democratic Rights Committee, described a recently signed trade agreement with the US as an “unbelievable deal against national interest” and criticised the government for not investigating those involved.
“Instead, they had been retained in key positions and even given additional responsibilities,” he added.
The discussion, titled “Two and a Half Months of BNP Government: Review, Concerns and Demands”, was organised by the Democratic Rights Committee at the Dhaka Reporters Unity auditorium.
The Jahangirnagar University professor also criticised decisions taken during the interim government period, including the trade agreement with the US and the subsequent move by the current administration to purchase 14 aircraft from Boeing.
He alleged that relevant state institutions were not properly involved in these decisions.
Anu Muhammad further claimed that key agencies such as Petrobangla were not adequately informed about major agreements, including those related to LNG imports.
Similar concerns were raised about the aircraft procurement process, which he said appeared to have been pre-arranged without the knowledge of concerned authorities.
According to him, former chief adviser Muhammad Yunus, the then national security adviser Khalilur Rahman (now foreign minister) and Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) Executive Chairman Ashik Chowdhury played key roles in the agreements.
Anu Muhammad criticised the current government for appointing Khalilur Rahman as foreign minister and retaining Ashik Chowdhury in his position, saying those involved should have faced investigation instead.
The economist also called for the publication of a white paper reviewing the activities of the interim government and criticised political parties represented in parliament for remaining silent on the US trade deal.
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