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Talks with int’l agencies soon to retrieve laundered money: Shafiqul

The interim government plans to hold discussions with various international organisations, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation, starting December 10 to facilitate the return of money laundered during the Awami League government, said Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam.

Shafiqul came up with this statement at a press conference held at the Foreign Service Academy in the capital on Sunday evening, where Deputy Press Secretaries Abul Kalam Azad Majumder and Apurba Jahangir were also present.

"The looters involved are not many, but they include politicians, bureaucrats, oligarchs, and some businessmen," said Shafiqul. "These individuals conspired together to launder the money, and some journalists even legitimised their actions."

Emphasising the government's commitment to recovering the stolen funds, the Press Secretary stated, "Returning the laundered money is one of our key promises. We are determined to bring it back, and we will explore every possible avenue to do so."

Shafiqul explained that the government's efforts will begin with meetings and consultations with international organisations, including the FBI, to understand the legal processes involved in recovering the stolen money. 

"It’s essential to identify where the money went before we can take action," he said. "While it may be easy to seize the funds, the legal aspects of returning them are more complex. We are engaging with specialised international agencies to navigate this process and receive their guidance."