Dhaka seeks WB assistance for power, gas

World Bank Country Director Xian Zhu meets Commerce Minister Faruk Khan at his office in Dhaka yesterday. Photo: PID

Commerce Minister Faruk Khan yesterday sought assistance from the World Bank in improving the ailing power sector and further exploration of natural gas.
The assistance was sought when World Bank Country Director Xian Zhu met the minister at his office.
“Power and gas shortfalls have slowed industrial and agricultural production. This has weakened the economy to some extent. So, we need special attention to these sectors,” said Khan, seeking cooperation from the multilateral lending agency.
Briefing reporters after the meeting, the minister said he had sought cooperation in development of infrastructure.
The minister said Xian Zhu pledged World Bank support. But he suggested diversification of exports and generating job opportunities to face the global financial crisis.
The World Bank official hoped that Bangladesh would not be affected much by the global financial crisis as the meltdown has already slowed.
“Investment depends on infrastructure development, transparency and the quality of service delivery. If these are found okay then foreign direct investment will automatically increase,” Xian Zhu was quoted to have told the minister.
The TIFA and transit issues also came up during the discussion when Khan said Bangladesh would not sign any agreement against the interest of the country.