<h1>Finance minister says reconstruction after student-led unrest will continue under strict austerity, prioritizing fiscal discipline and reforms</h1> The finance minister told development partners that reconstruction of infrastructure damaged during recent student-led violent protests will proceed under strict austerity, with expenditure cuts if necessary, and emphasized the interim government's priorities of fiscal discipline, economic reforms, transparency, accountability and rule of law. The minister framed rebuilding and continuity of ongoing projects as immediate priorities, noted substantial public and private losses from the unrest, and sought partner cooperation; attending diplomats and agencies signaled awareness of the changed political context and readiness to support programs aligned with the interim government's roadmap.