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IMF is also under consideration, although no formal discussions have taken place yet,” he added.

The possibility of extra financing from the Asian Development Bank and other sources is also being explored.

Appointed last month after the new government took office, Rahman said Bangladesh needs to ensure energy security and cut costs, and that the government is trying.

“The situation is changing rapidly -- sometimes there is talk of a ceasefire, and then again, fears of new conflict arise. Therefore, efforts are being made to take necessary decisions by constantly monitoring the situation and coordinating with all relevant parties.

“Our goal is only one: to keep the economy relatively stable even in this uncertain situation,” he said.

He added that in the current situation, the central bank’s policy stance is extremely important. “Especially on the exchange rate issue, we have to remain cautious. The BB is also not going to reduce the policy rate.”

“In the current situation, it is not realistic to reduce interest rates quickly, as controlling inflation is essential. It will also take time for confidence in new investments to return,” the BB chief said.

He added that over the last five to eight years, crises have become a new normal. “New problems appear every one or two years -- including Covid, war, and other challenges. It seems we have to move forward accepting this reality.”

STRENGTHENING FINANCIAL SECTOR AND INDUSTRY

The governor also spoke about keeping the financial sector free from political influence. Work is ongoing to recover defaulted loans and assets siphoned abroad. Most of the non-disclosure agreements have been signed by banks with international asset recovery firms.

Last week, the governor met with large industrial groups and employment-generating firms to address their concerns.

“Our main priorities are three -- agriculture, the SME sector, and restarting closed factories. Efforts are being made to bring closed factories back into production, even partially, because these are national assets,” he said.

Initiatives have been taken to increase cashless transactions. By June 30, the Bangla QR code will be mandatory at all payment points, with strict enforcement from July. This will increase transactions and boost revenue.

Responding to questions about troubled non-bank financial institutions (NBFIs), he said efforts are being made for a quick solution. The BB had earlier decided to liquidate six NBFIs due to poor financial health and sought funds from the finance ministry to repay depositors.

“It is our responsibility to protect depositors, as they have kept money in licensed institutions,” he added, noting that the BB will also move forward with making Sammilito Islami Bank operational.

The bank was created as a state-owned entity in December last year through the merger of five troubled Shariah-based lenders. The appointment of a managing director is underway, and the board of the bank will be reconstituted.