“The economy is not broken—it is rebounding,” Dr. Salehuddin said during his keynote address at the “Nagad-DRU Best Reporting Award 2025” ceremony held at the International Mother Language Institute in Dhaka. “Compared to the difficult period we experienced in August, the situation has significantly improved. We are now witnessing tangible progress.”
The Finance Adviser pointed to encouraging developments in critical economic indicators, including a stabilization of foreign exchange reserves and a resurgence in export growth. These improvements, he said, reflect the effectiveness of recent policy measures and underscore growing confidence in the national economy.
Despite ongoing domestic challenges—including inflationary pressures and fiscal constraints—Dr. Salehuddin emphasized that Bangladesh continues to enjoy a positive standing in the global arena.
“Major international institutions recognize the efforts being made. They see the reforms, they acknowledge the resilience, and they remain confident in Bangladesh’s trajectory,” he said.
Looking ahead, the adviser called for greater fiscal discipline, particularly in the execution of large infrastructure projects.
“Some so-called ‘mega projects’ have turned into monuments—costing hundreds of crores of taka but delivering little practical benefit to the people,” he remarked, stressing the need for accountability, transparency, and outcome-based planning.
“We must learn from past experiences. Future investments should be guided by efficiency, necessity, and long-term value—not prestige or political symbolism,” he added.
With the next general election approaching, Dr. Salehuddin highlighted the importance of institutional continuity.
“The coming months are crucial. Our responsibility is not just to manage the present but to lay a solid foundation for the future,” he said. “We must refine and coordinate existing systems so they can be handed over to the incoming government in a condition that allows them to be advanced more effectively and modernly.”
Toward Inclusive and Human-Centered Development
The adviser also stressed that sustainable development goes beyond economic metrics.
“People don’t live on GDP alone. They need quality education, accessible healthcare, and a robust social security net,” he said. “True progress means building a Bangladesh that is not only wealthier—but also healthier, fairer, and happier.”
He urged policymakers to prioritize human development alongside infrastructure and industrial growth.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Salehuddin praised the role of the media as a watchdog of democracy.
“Journalists must go beyond headlines. Conduct investigative reporting, uncover hidden truths, and offer constructive criticism,” he said. “Point out flaws, hold power accountable—but do so with integrity and responsibility.”
He expressed full confidence that Bangladesh is moving forward and will accelerate its development in the years ahead.
The Nagad-DRU Best Reporting Award 2025 honored outstanding journalism in print, digital, and broadcast media. The event was jointly organized by Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU) and Nagad, with support from BPO-Nagad.
Kaiser A. Chowdhury, Chairman of the Management Board, BPO-Nagad, attended as the special guest. DRU President Abu Saleh Akon and General Secretary Mynul Hasan Sohel also delivered speeches, recognizing the vital role of ethical journalism in national development.