Bangladesh Seeks Starlink Collaboration with Elon Musk for Digital Growth and Innovation

February 14, 2025
Bangladesh Seeks Starlink Collaboration with Elon Musk for Digital Growth and Innovation
  • The collaboration between Yunus and Musk aims to foster economic growth, digital inclusion, and innovation throughout Bangladesh, particularly benefiting youth, rural women, and remote communities.

  • To facilitate Starlink's operational licensing, the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission has released draft guidelines for non-geostationary orbit satellite service operators.

  • During this meeting, President Donald Trump commented on the business interests discussed, acknowledging the challenges posed by tariffs in conducting business in India.

  • This initiative also aims to improve internet access amid the ongoing challenges faced by Bangladesh's interim government and to garner US diplomatic support.

  • However, relations between India and Bangladesh have soured since Yunus took office after the student-led revolution that ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who is currently in exile in India.

  • Bangladesh is also seeking the extradition of Sheikh Hasina, facing allegations related to the deaths of protesters during the revolt that led to her removal.

  • The discussions highlighted the broader impact of Starlink on small and micro-entrepreneurs, enabling them to access global markets.

  • Musk currently serves as a special government employee in the United States, heading the Department of Government Efficiency under the Trump administration.

  • On February 14, 2025, Bangladesh's interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, formally requested Elon Musk to introduce his Starlink satellite internet service to the country.

  • Both parties agreed to expedite the initiative, assigning representatives to coordinate further efforts, which underscores the significance of the partnership for Bangladesh's digital future.

  • Speculation is growing about Musk's potential visit to Bangladesh, especially regarding his attendance at the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority’s international investment conference scheduled for April 2025.

  • The discussions between Musk and Yunus coincided with Musk's meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Washington, reflecting the geopolitical context of these initiatives.

Summary based on 14 sources


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