Country now has bargaining power: Kamal

Finance Minister A H M Mustafa Kamal said Bangladesh has now achieved bargaining capacity with the development partners in choosing its foreign aid.

"We've the capacity to fulfill terms and conditions of any development partner. So, the donors, including the World Bank (WB), are now coming forward with their extended support for Bangladesh."

He said these after a courtesy meeting with outgoing WB Country Director in Bangladesh Qimiao Fan in Dhaka on Thursday afternoon. Senior officials from the WB Dhaka office were also present at the meeting.

Mr Fan will leave Bangladesh in mid-February after completing his tenure here.

The finance minister at the meeting requested WB to further extend its support for development of the country.

"We are hopeful that WB will enhance its assistance for all types of development of Bangladesh in the future, as relation with the donor is in the highest level at this moment."

"Earlier, we were passing through hard times for some days. But, now the relation is very good. The present team of WB Dhaka office is cooperative and helpful."

Bangladesh is now a lucrative destination for global investors, especially after getting the primary recognition of a "developing country", Mr Kamal opined.

Besides, the country is maintaining a healthy socio-economic progress and Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth over the years, he added.

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