Defence procurement part of ongoing process: Security Adviser

National security adviser Dr Khalilur Rahman has said defence equipment purchases and agreements with various countries are part of an ongoing process, even at the final stage of the interim government’s tenure.

He made the remarks on Monday afternoon while responding to journalists’ questions at the foreign ministry after a meeting with foreign adviser Md Touhid Hossain.

Asked about defence agreements with countries including the United States, China and Japan, he said, “This is an ongoing process.”

When questioned about responsibility if the next government does not proceed with the agreements, he described it as a hypothetical question.

Responding to criticism over his inclusion on the board of Biman Bangladesh Airlines, Dr Khalilur Rahman said, “Not all countries in the world have airline companies.”

Following the July mass uprising, the interim government led by Professor Muhammad Yunus assumed office on August 8, 2024, with priorities including state reforms, trials over July killings and holding national elections.

However, the government has faced criticism for focusing heavily on defence initiatives, including drone manufacturing with China, procurement of fighter jets, submarines, helicopters and upgrading naval capabilities.

Efforts are also underway to sign a defence agreement with Japan ahead of the February 12 parliamentary election.