Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus had an extensive discussion with Elon Musk to explore future collaboration and to make further progress in introducing Starlink satellite internet service in Bangladesh.

The founder of SpaceX and chief adviser talked about the potential transformational impact of Starlink’s satellite communications, particularly for Bangladesh’s enterprising youth, rural and vulnerable women and remote communities, says a press release of the chief adviser’s press wing.

On the Bangladesh side, Khalilur Rahman, high representative for the Rohingya crisis and priority issues, and Lamiya Morshed, principal coordinator of SDGs, attended the virtual meeting.

On the SpaceX side, the company’s Vice President Lauren Dreyer, and Global Engagement Adviser Richard Griffiths were present.

Prof Yunus and Musk discussed how high-speed, low-cost internet connectivity could bridge the digital divide in Bangladesh, strengthen education, healthcare, and economic development in underserved regions, and give millions of small and micro-entrepreneurs access beyond the national boundary.

Prof Yunus stated that integrating Starlink’s connectivity into Bangladesh’s infrastructure would create new opportunities for millions and integrate the country more closely into the global digital economy.

He further expressed his enthusiasm for working alongside Musk to unlock the full potential of technology-driven social and economic growth.

Prof Yunus said Starlink would be an extension of Grameen Bank and Grameenphone’s pioneering of connecting village women and young people to the world.

“They would become global women and kids and global entrepreneurs,” he said.

Musk, in turn, praised the Grameen Bank microfinance model, acknowledging its global impact on poverty alleviation.

The Tesla founder said he was familiar with the work of both Grameen Bank and Grameen Village Phone.

He expressed his belief that leveraging technological advancements such as Starlink could further drive innovation, economic empowerment, and financial inclusion in Bangladesh.

Prof Yunus invited Musk to visit Bangladesh for the potential launch of Starlink services, underscoring the significance of this initiative for national development, to which Musk responded positively.

“I look forward to it,” Musk said.

This engagement marks a significant step toward bringing advanced satellite connectivity to Bangladesh, fostering economic growth, digital inclusion, and innovation across the nation.

Both sides agreed to make speedy progress on this initiative and mandated High Representative Rahman, Dreyer, and Griffiths to coordinate further work.

_{Source: The Daily Star}