Bangladesh Seeks Digital Revolution With Elon Musk’s Starlink Launch Amidst Economic Challenges | Image:
AP
Dhaka: Bangladesh ‘s interim government chief adviser, Professor Muhammad Yunus, has reportedly extended an invitation to SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, to launch Starlink satellite service in the country. Reports of Yunus approaching the SpaceX CEO came up amidst Elon Musk’s possible business setup in India after meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his recent US visit. Meanwhile, it is speculated that Yunus’ move is aimed to revolutionise Bangladesh’s digital sector and provide high-speed internet access to its citizens, especially in rural and underserved areas.
Bangladesh Govt Looking For Major Economic Boost Amidst Challenges
Muhammad Yunus’ invitation comes at a time when Bangladesh’s economy is facing major challenges, including a massive jolt from former US President Donald Trump ‘s decision to bar funds to the country. Despite these challenges, the Bangladesh government is keen to leverage technology to drive economic growth and social development. The launch of Starlink is expected to have a transformational impact on the country’s economy, particularly for Bangladesh’s enterprising youth, rural and vulnerable women, and remote and underserved communities.
In a letter to Musk, Yunus asserted that the visit would offer an opportunity to engage with Bangladesh’s youth, who are expected to be the primary beneficiaries of this advanced technology. “Let us work together to deliver our mutual vision for a better future,” the Chief Adviser said in his letter to the tech mogul. Yunus has also reportedly directed his High Representative, Khalilur Rahman, to work in close coordination with Elon Musk’s SpaceX team to expedite the necessary preparations, ensuring Starlink’s readiness for launch in Bangladesh within the next 90 working days.
Reports suggested that last week, Yunus held a detailed phone conversation with Musk to discuss potential collaboration and the prospects of launching Starlink satellite internet services in Bangladesh. “I look forward to it,” Musk told Yunus during the phone call. Starlink, a satellite constellation operated by SpaceX, aims to provide global broadband coverage, especially targeting regions with limited or no access to high-speed internet.
The local Bangladesh media reports quoted Yunus as saying, “Integrating Starlink’s connectivity into Bangladesh’s infrastructure will have a transformational impact, particularly for Bangladesh’s enterprising youth, rural and vulnerable women, and remote and underserved communities.”
The launch of Starlink in Bangladesh is expected to have a huge impact on the country’s digital economy and global connectivity. It will provide high-speed internet access to rural and underserved communities, bridging the digital divide and unlocking new opportunities for socio-economic growth.
Trump Administration Stops Funds In Bangladesh
Earlier, the Donald Trump administration’s US Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) under the leadership of Elon Musk, announced the cancellation of major funding programs in Bangladesh. In Bangladesh, a USD 29 million funding program aimed at “strengthening the political scenario” was scrapped. The move sparked speculation about US involvement in election-related activities in Bangladesh, further pointing to the recent change of regime in the country.
The cancellation of funds was part of a broader effort by the DOGE to cut international aid and reduce government spending.