Briefing 2024-08-18

Masrur Reaz declines BSEC chief offer

After three days of discussions, Dr M Masrur Reaz on Saturday announced with regret that he was "unable" to accept the proposal to become chairman of the Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC) -- a position the finance ministry had offered him. Instead of joining the stock regulator, Mr Reaz said he prefers to continue promoting necessary policy analysis and reform ideas for the country's economy, he said in a statement on Saturday. "…thus, despite my heartfelt appreciation, I have decided not to accept the position of BSEC Chairman," the statement said. Page 9

Gaza truce deal closer than ever: Biden

Joe Biden has said he is "optimistic" that a Gaza ceasefire deal can be reached. "We are closer than we've ever been," the US president said following the latest round of talks, adding he was sending his secretary of state to Israel to continue the "intensive efforts to conclude this agreement". However, a senior Hamas official said there had been no progress and mediators were "selling illusions". Page 14