U.S. Delegation Discusses Financial Reforms and Return of Laundered Money with Bangladesh Officials

Saifur Rahman, Dhaka, September 15 — Economic Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed stated that discussions took place with the visiting U.S. delegation on recovering laundered money and implementing reforms in Bangladesh’s financial sector. The meeting was held at the Padma State Guest House on Sunday.

Ahmed mentioned that the primary focus of the talks was collaboration with the U.S. Treasury Department and USAID on financial reforms and assistance needed in the financial sector. He added, “The second area of focus was trade, particularly export diversification and exploring technical assistance for market expansion in the trade sector.”

According to the adviser, both parties will move forward with an action plan, and the U.S. delegation has assured cooperation in this regard.

Regarding the $200 million development assistance agreement with USAID, Ahmed explained, “This is an addition to a previous agreement. They will be providing additional funds on top of the existing agreement.”

When asked about seeking assistance to recover laundered money, Ahmed confirmed, “All these issues were discussed. Further detailed discussions will take place later.”

The U.S. delegation, led by Brent Neiman, Assistant Under-Secretary for International Finance at the U.S. Department of Treasury, arrived in Dhaka on Saturday, September 14. The delegation also includes Donald Lu, U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, who joined them after concluding his visit to Delhi.