The government wants to manage Covid-19 vaccines as soon as possible, pursuing all possible means, to vaccinate the people of the country.
The Finance Minister AHM Mustafa Kamal came up with the statement while talking to reporters on Saturday after virtually chairing two separate meetings on Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) and the Cabinet Committee on Government Purchase (CCGP).
Finance Minister said that vaccines are being arranged quickly by the government for the safety of the countrymen considering the current situation of coronavirus.
"Although we're a bit concerned (about the vaccines), but for now vaccination against COVID-19 is a must. We'll have to vaccinate people as soon as possible and we're pursuing all possible means. Insha Allah, you'll get good results," he said.
Asked about the macroeconomic challenges in the new fiscal year starting from July 1, he said that the challenges ahead of the government are many.
AHM Mustafa Kamal said, “We are doing better and will do much better in the coming days. We always consider the challenges as our opportunities. History in the economy indicates that challenges come up with a lot of opportunities.”
He said that the government has already proved its credibility to achieve goals in many sectors despite the coronavirus pandemic.
During this pandemic, revenue collection witnessed a 17 percent growth with attaining uptrend in the foreign currency reserve and the inward remittance flow. It was the toughest challenge for us to meet.
The expatriates have sent money to Bangladesh out of their love, passion and responsibility to the countrymen, he said.
Highlighting some of the latest major macroeconomic attainments, he said that the revenue collection has now witnessed a growth of 17 percent, export earnings witnessed a growth of almost 14 percent, the foreign currency reserves is nearing $46 billion, the inward remittance flow has reached around $25 billion which is the highest ever for Bangladesh. “These achievements were possible due to the resilient nature of our people,” he added.
Replying to a question about the government steps for the poor ahead of the strict lockdown from Monday, he said that the government has been supporting the poor people. Besides food aid, cash incentives have already been given to them. The government is helping the poor and helpless people in every way. He also said that the poor will be given more support.
The Finance Minister further said that there is a separate committee of the government to look into the matter. Moreover, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has also directed the authorities concerned to monitor the process properly.
The poor and helpless people will get assistance from the government as they got earlier amid the pandemic, he added.
