Government‍‍`s gas price adjustment aimed at ensuring energy access for all, says Press Secretary

In a recent discussion at the Development Journalist Forum event in Dhaka, Shafikul Alam, the Press Secretary to the Chief Adviser, shed light on why the government is adjusting gas prices. 

The primary reason, according to Alam, is to ensure that everyone has access to energy, particularly in light of the global energy crisis.

The event, held at the NEC building, saw the Press Secretary responding to journalists‍‍` questions about the state of the economy and various national issues. 

Alam shared his confidence that inflation would be reduced to 7% by June, thanks to several measures being taken by the government.

He also spoke about the widespread corruption related to the construction of model mosques across the country.

Alam stressed that the government is focusing on creating sustainable solutions for the country‍‍`s energy sector, which includes drilling new gas wells and prioritizing renewable energy. 

He pointed out that global factors like the war in Ukraine have caused LNG prices to soar, making it impossible for the government to continue subsidies. 

"The government cannot continue to provide subsidies indefinitely, so it is looking to adjust the prices," Alam explained. "Our goal is to make sure that everyone can access energy in the proper way."

Reflecting on past challenges, the Press Secretary also mentioned that the mismanagement of the electricity sector under the Awami League government is still having negative consequences. 

He went on to say that the Prime Minister had left the economy in a fragile state.

Alam also highlighted that money had been siphoned out of the country through certain institutions taking advantage of banking facilities. 

The government is currently working to improve governance in the banking sector. 

He reassured the public that there will be enough stocks of essential goods for the upcoming Ramadan and that market prices will remain under control.

"This government is doing its best," Alam said, emphasizing that dealing with inflation requires raising interest rates temporarily, a strategy that is widely recognized worldwide. "As inflation decreases, you will see the interest rates coming down."

Finally, Alam spoke about efforts to increase foreign investment by improving the efficiency of the Chittagong Port. 

Discussions with major international companies are currently underway to bring more investment into the country.