Bangladesh’s economic recovery over the past six months has been nothing short of a miracle, according to Shafiqul Alam, Press Secretary to the Chief Adviser. Speaking at the “DJFB Talk” event organized by the Development Journalist Forum of Bangladesh (DJFB) at the NEC conference room in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar on Wednesday, he stated that before the interim government took office, the country’s economy was on the brink of collapse.

He emphasized the need to restore discipline in the energy sector, criticizing state-sponsored mismanagement and corruption. He noted that efforts are being made to find a long-term solution for the power sector, including negotiations with major power companies and extensive gas exploration.

Regarding infrastructure, Alam highlighted plans to improve the efficiency of Chattogram Port, stating that without such improvements, investment would remain stagnant. He stressed the importance of increasing the port’s capacity for re-export operations and revealed ongoing discussions with major global companies to enhance port facilities, which would, in turn, attract more foreign investment.

He further pointed out that without an efficient energy system, investors would not be interested in Bangladesh. He criticized past governments for mishandling the power sector and revenue system, leading to financial mismanagement. He cited examples of excessive spending, such as the construction of 560 model mosques at inflated costs and inefficient railway expansions that failed to optimize operations, calling these projects a waste of public funds.