Bangladesh has initiated discussions with SpaceX and Tesla founder Elon Musk to introduce Starlink’s satellite internet service, aiming to bridge the nation’s digital divide.
Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus extended an invitation to Musk to visit Bangladesh and explore the possibilities of collaboration.
During a video call on Thursday (13 February), Yunus and Musk deliberated on advancing future cooperation and accelerating efforts to launch Starlink’s services in Bangladesh, said the Chief Adviser’s Press Wing.
The meeting was attended by Bangladesh’s High Representative for the Rohingya Crisis and Priority Affairs, Khalilur Rahman, and SDG Chief Coordinator Lamia Morshed.
On behalf of SpaceX, Vice President Lauren Dreyer and Global Engagement Adviser Richard Griffiths participated.
Their discussions centred on the transformative impact of Starlink’s satellite connectivity, particularly in empowering the country’s enterprising youth, rural communities, and vulnerable women.
They examined how affordable, high-speed internet could mitigate digital inequality, bolster education, healthcare, and economic growth in underserved areas, and enable millions of micro and small-scale entrepreneurs to expand beyond national boundaries.
Yunus stated that integrating Starlink into Bangladesh’s infrastructure would create new opportunities for millions and strengthen the nation’s integration into the global digital economy.
Expressing keen interest in working alongside Musk, he highlighted the potential of technology-driven socio-economic progress.
He further proposed that Starlink could serve as an extension of Grameen Bank and Grameenphone, empowering rural women and young entrepreneurs to access global markets.
Musk, in response, praised Grameen Bank’s microfinance model and its global impact on poverty alleviation.
He acknowledged his longstanding familiarity with the work of both Grameen Bank and Grameenphone.
The Tesla chief expressed his firm belief that leveraging technological advancements like Starlink could accelerate innovation, economic empowerment, and financial inclusion in Bangladesh.
During the meeting, Yunus extended a formal invitation for Musk to visit Bangladesh, underlining the significance of this initiative for national development.
Musk responded positively, stating, “I am looking forward to it.”
This engagement is seen as a crucial step towards bringing advanced satellite connectivity to Bangladesh, fostering economic growth, enhancing digital inclusion, and stimulating innovation across the country.
Both parties agreed to expedite progress on this initiative, assigning Khalilur Rahman, Dreyer, and Griffiths to coordinate the next steps.
