Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Friday emphasised the importance of people's welfare over maintaining high reserves.

"During the Covid-19 pandemic, our reserves rose as imports, exports, and transport were restricted. However, as the economy reopened post-pandemic, it was natural that the reserves would decrease due to increased imports," said the prime minister responding to questions about measures to stabilise the declining reserves – which have dropped from $48 billion to $18 billion since the onset of Covid.

"If we focus solely on saving the reserves, we might have to halt power generation, cease water and fertilizer supplies, and more. These are the only ways to keep the reserves intact," said the premier.

The PM said, "What should take precedence: safeguarding the reserves or ensuring the welfare of our nation's people?"

She highlighted the rising costs of essential goods and urged citizens not to leave any arable land unused. 

"If we overly fixate on reserves, we might have to reduce electricity generation to levels seen when we first assumed office," said the prime minister.

The prime minister further said the significant progress the country has experienced has been realised after the Awami League assumed power.

"The advancements began shortly after the Awami League took office. However, I wonder why there are so many questions being raised now. Could it be that the rapid pace of development in the country has become a cause for concern?" questioned the premier.

The press conference, which started at 4pm on Friday, is being broadcasted from the premier's official Ganabhaban residence.

The Prime Minister returned home on Wednesday after wrapping up her 16-day official visit to the United States of America (USA) and the United Kingdom (UK).

During her stay in New York and Washington DC from 17-29 September, she attended the UNGA session and other high-level side and bilateral events, joined a reception accorded to her by Bangladeshi expatriates in the US, and visited the Bangladesh Embassy in Washington DC.

During her stay in the UK from 30 September to 3 October, the Prime Minister also had several courtesy meetings and attended a reception accorded to her by the Bangladeshi community in London.