Debapriya calls for reassessment of interim government’s foreign agreements

He urges Tarique government to be realistic on 180‑day plan

Debapriya Bhattacharya has urged the government to reconsider foreign agreements signed by the interim administration, saying they must be reassessed alongside the review of Bangladesh’s LDC graduation commitments.

Speaking at a media briefing organised by the Citizens’ Platform at BRAC Centre Inn in Dhaka on Thursday, Debapriya said: “The previous government signed different foreign agreements before leaving office. These were not only with the United States or about handing over our ports, but also in other areas we may not yet be aware of.”

“These agreements should be reconsidered to understand what responsibilities they impose on the new government,” the distinguished fellow at the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) added.

“Since you are willing to reassess LDC graduation, you must also bring these agreements under review.”

He cautioned against rushing the government’s 180‑day programme, urging patience and realism in economic management.

Debapriya, head of the interim government’s economic White Paper Committee formed after the Awami League was ousted in the 2024 movement, also warned against printing money to control inflation and called for restraint during Ramadan.

Debapriya criticised the interim government for worsening the debt situation, leaving the BNP administration with a weaker fiscal position.

He also suggested deferring implementation of the Family Card programme until after local government elections.