Interim government Finance Advisor Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed on Tuesday said that Bangladesh’s economy is currently in a comfortable state, expressing confidence despite global and domestic economic concerns.

“I am comfortable from an economic perspective. That’s why we are reasonably confident,” he told reporters after chairing a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Government Purchase at the Secretariat.

His comments came in response to a journalist’s question about a recent World Bank report, which stated that poverty in Bangladesh has increased. Dr. Ahmed dismissed the need for theoretical debates, saying, “To properly explain whether poverty has increased or not would require an elaborate discussion. I know how they measure poverty—it depends on their base and clients.”

When asked again whether the overall economy is in good shape, he reaffirmed, “From an economic standpoint, I feel at ease. That’s why we’re fairly confident. I can’t speak on other issues.”

Addressing a question about reports that the Bangladesh government is purchasing 20 fighter ships from China for $2.2 billion, the finance advisor declined to comment, stating, “I won’t say anything about that.”

When pressed further by reporters on whether he was aware of the deal, he responded, “Even if I know something, that doesn’t mean I have to reveal everything.”

Regarding the need for such military purchases, he added, “That’s for them to assess. We are not involved in those decisions. My concern is with the financial arrangements.”

When asked if his office had approved the funding, Dr. Ahmed replied, “At this point, I cannot say anything about that.”

The finance advisor also discussed his upcoming trip to Washington, where he is scheduled to meet with the IMF, World Bank, ADB, and IsDB representatives.

“There are still funds in the IMF pipeline. With the World Bank, two agreements will be signed during this trip. For the rest, it’s just regular follow-up—not negotiation this time,” he said.

Regarding future economic planning, Dr. Ahmed emphasized that major decisions will be made by the next elected government. “We’re not discussing everything openly at this point. Once the new government takes office, they will handle the key policy matters. That is our position,” he concluded.