`Discussions with the IMF on new loan agreement underway`

Discussions between Bangladesh and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) regarding a new loan agreement are progressing. The government is optimistic about reaching a consensus on most of the conditions for the proposed loan program, though talks regarding a few specific conditions are still ongoing, according to Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury.

He made these remarks while speaking to journalists on Monday (October 12) following a meeting with the World Bank on the sidelines of the IMF and World Bank Annual Meetings in Thailand.

Regarding cooperation with the World Bank, the Finance Minister stated that a process for a Partnership Framework Agreement is underway, which will determine the areas of cooperation between Bangladesh and the World Bank in the coming days. In the meantime, World Bank assistance continues. He expressed hope that a favorable program will be formulated for Bangladesh.

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The minister mentioned that the government's plans are being structured in alignment with its commitments to the people and its election agenda.

When asked about the progress of discussions with the IMF, Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury said that talks have already begun, multiple meetings have been held, and discussions are continuing. Several more meetings are scheduled to take place over the next few days.

Regarding the conditions of the loan program, he noted that the IMF has certain conditions that are currently under negotiation. He believes that differences can be resolved through discussions. The organization has also been informed about the necessity of maintaining a certain timeline or sequence in implementing specific conditions.