Sylhet, Feb 28 (V7N) — Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir has said that Finance Minister Amir Khasru did not speak about raising the tax burden at the individual level, but rather about improving the overall tax-GDP ratio.

He made the remarks after a meeting with officials of various government departments at Sylhet Circuit House on Saturday morning.

FTA Discussions With EU

The commerce minister said Bangladesh has formally written to the European Union to initiate discussions on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). He also expressed optimism that the domestic market will remain stable throughout the remaining days of Ramadan and in the coming months.

Referring to the global economic situation, he noted that American tariffs have contributed to a worldwide slowdown, but the government is taking measures to ensure workers receive their wages properly so they can celebrate Eid comfortably.

Focus on Public-Priority Projects

Water Resources Minister Shahid Uddin Chowdhury Annie said the Prime Minister has instructed authorities to prioritize projects of public importance.

He added that the government is focusing on key initiatives in the Sylhet region, including flood control, riverbank protection and dam construction in haor areas. The minister also acknowledged that tackling corruption remains a major challenge but pledged that development work will be carried out transparently.

Efforts to Reopen Overseas Labor Markets

Meanwhile, Expatriate Welfare Minister Ariful Haque Chowdhury said steps are being taken to reopen labor markets that were previously closed, particularly in Saudi Arabia, Malaysia and other Middle Eastern countries.

Officials expressed hope that coordinated policy actions across sectors will help stabilize the economy and support workers both at home and abroad.

END/SMA/AJ