2nd ECNEC Meeting and PM's Directives

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina

The 2nd meeting of the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) of the current government, held on March 28, 2024, aimed to review and approve various development projects while also addressing the challenges and opportunities following Bangladesh's anticipated graduation from the Least Developed Country (LDC) status in 2026.

Attendees: Ministers, State Ministers, Planning Commission members, Secretaries concerned

Approval of Projects

1. A total of 11 projects were approved with an estimated cost of Tk 8,425.51 crore.
2. Government funding will cover Tk 7,939.87 crore, while Tk 485.64 crore will be sourced as project assistance.

Prime Minister's Directives

1. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina emphasized maximizing benefits post-LDC graduation and tackling associated challenges.
2. Instructions were given for the construction of the Bangladesh Chancery Complex in Cairo, emphasizing facilities for expatriate Bangladeshis.
3. Emphasis was placed on preventing river erosion and considering flood resilience in rural infrastructure projects.
4. Completion of Union Parishad complexes was urged, with a focus on rainwater preservation and solar power in coastal areas.
5. Prioritization of women's training was directed for the Bangladesh Handloom Board Complex in Mirpur.

Project Implementation

1. The Planning Commission assured necessary allocations for projects nearing completion, following the Prime Minister's review.
2. Challenges such as delays due to land acquisition complexities and fluctuating dollar prices were acknowledged.

Additional Approvals

1. Projects approved included procurement of locomotives, highway upgrades, fisheries development, healthcare infrastructure, and radio modernization.
2. The timeframe for shifting Bangladesh Betar, Shahbagh Complex, to Agargaon, Dhaka, was extended.

The ECNEC meeting under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina showcased a comprehensive approach towards development and post-LDC graduation challenges. The directives provided clear guidance for project implementation, prioritizing key sectors like infrastructure, healthcare, and skill development. The meeting underscored the government's commitment to efficient resource allocation and timely project execution to drive Bangladesh towards sustainable growth.