Dhaka, Oct. 7 -- Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed said on Tuesday that the government has already crossed the external borrowing limit set by the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

But, he said, development partners' concerns over debt sustainability are understandable and rooted in ensuring prudent financial management.

Dr Salehuddin made the remarks while briefing reporters after a meeting of the Advisers Council Committee on Government Purchase held at the Secretariat with the adviser in the chair.

"We have already exceeded the ceiling-around $4 billion additional funds have been used. But overall, we have shown progress," Dr Salehuddin said.

When asked about the reason behind the borrowing ceiling, the Adviser explained that th...