Dhaka, Feb. 28 -- The Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) has expressed "deep shock" over a trade agreement signed between the immediate past interim government and the United States, questioning the legitimacy of a non-elected administration committing the country to long-term obligations.

At a briefing on Saturday outlining recommendations for the new government's first 180 days, CPD Research Director Khondaker Golam Moazzem said the think tank was "astounded and stunned" by the details of the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART).

The deal was inked on Feb 9, just three days before the Muhammad Yunus-led interim administration held the general election.

The BNP formed the government with an absolute majority.

"When tariff discussions be...