Hasina expects 6.5pc GDP growth

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Wednesday expressed her optimism that the GDP growth in the current fiscal year would hit 6.5 per cent and even more although the World Bank apprehended that it might come down to 5.7 per cent due to political violence. "We've curbed all things with an iron hand after assuming office this time and we've also ensured peace and security to public life. The exports will increase and the GDP growth may reach 6.5 per cent and even more," she told Parliament replying to a supplementary question from Haji Selim (Dhaka-7) during her scheduled question-answer session. The GDP growth target in the current fiscal year is 7.2 per cent. The Prime Minister said investment proposals are now coming largely and the export markets being diversified due to the proactive steps taken by her government to boost export earnings. "I hope the people of Bangladesh will get its benefits."  "We'll be able to infuse a new pace into the economy with the cooperation of all through boosting trade and commerce," Hasina told the House, according to a news agency.