Economist Anu Muhammad on Friday alleged that the government’s actions indicate an “America First” approach despite its stated commitment to prioritising national interests.

Speaking at a discussion in the city, he said although Prime Minister Tarique Rahman had spoken of a “Bangladesh First” policy, recent decisions suggested otherwise.

“Although Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has spoken of a ‘Bangladesh First’ policy, in reality, the activities suggest that the government is operating on an ‘America First’ policy,” he said.

Anu Muhammad described a recently signed trade agreement with the United States as an “unbelievable deal against national interest” and criticised the government for not investigating those allegedly involved in the process. “Instead, they had been retained in key positions and even given additional responsibilities.”

The discussion, titled Two and a Half Months of BNP Government: Review, Concerns and Demands, was organised by the Democratic Rights Committee at the Dhaka Reporters Unity auditorium.

The Jahangirnagar University professor also criticised decisions taken during the interim government period, including the US trade agreement and the subsequent move by the current administration to purchase 14 aircraft from Boeing.

He alleged that relevant state institutions were not properly consulted in taking those decisions. According to him, agencies such as Petrobangla were not adequately informed about major agreements, including those related to LNG imports.

He raised similar concerns over the aircraft procurement process, claiming it appeared to have been pre-arranged without the knowledge of concerned authorities.

Anu Muhammad alleged that former chief adviser Muhammad Yunus, then national security adviser Khalilur Rahman, now foreign minister, and Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) Executive Chairman Ashik Chowdhury played key roles in the agreements.

He criticised the current government for appointing Khalilur Rahman as foreign minister and retaining Ashik Chowdhury in office, saying those involved should have faced investigation instead.

The economist also called for publication of a white paper reviewing the activities of the interim government and criticised parliamentary parties for remaining silent over the US trade deal.