Jamaat Ameer for 'reality-based' assessment of US trade deal

Opposition Leader in Parliament and Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Shafiqur Rahman has said that the proposed trade agreement with the United States should be assessed in the "light of reality" rather than viewed in isolation.

He made the remarks while speaking to reporters at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on Saturday after returning from an official visit to Japan.

Dr. Shafiqur Rahman said the agreement with the US is not a standalone arrangement, as Bangladesh maintains multiple international commitments. He stressed that all such issues should be evaluated based on practical realities and national interests.

Recent discussions surrounding a trade agreement between the United States and the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus have sparked controversy. Critics have raised concerns that the deal may not be in Bangladesh's interest. Reports suggest the agreement includes 131 conditions and covers various import commitments, including the purchase of Boeing aircraft.

Former National Security Adviser and current Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman has claimed that BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami had given consent to the agreement. However, Jamaat has denied that any formal consultation took place with them regarding the deal.

Responding to questions about rising commodity prices, the Jamaat Ameer said he would personally assess market conditions. He stated that he plans to visit production hubs, wholesale markets and retail outlets to understand the actual price structure. "We will not remain silent; we will respond after examining reality," he said.

He added that the party's position on economic issues would be shaped by evaluating public hardship and prevailing market conditions.

Regarding his Japan visit, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman said he held meetings with officials from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the Japanese Foreign Ministry and the Nippon Foundation, among others. Discussions focused on strengthening Bangladesh-Japan relations, skill development, infrastructure cooperation, disaster management and climate change adaptation.