Prof. Yunus and Elon Musk discuss collaboration to introduce Starlink satellite internet in Bangladesh, aiming to boost digital connectivity for youth, women, and entrepreneurs.
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| Prof. Yunus and Elon Musk discuss the transformational impact of Starlink on Bangladesh, including empowering small businesses and rural communities with affordable internet. Image/ Illustration: ChicHue |
Dhaka, Bangladesh – February 14, 2025:
Chief Adviser of Bangladesh government Prof. Muhammad Yunus held a video meeting with Elon Musk, founder of SpaceX and owner of Tesla and X, on Thursday to discuss a collaboration aimed at introducing Starlink satellite internet service in Bangladesh. The meeting was attended by key figures including Dr. Khalilur Rahman, High Representative for the Rohingya crisis, Lamiya Morshed, Principal Coordinator of SDGs Affairs, and SpaceX representatives Lauren Dreyer and Richard Griffiths.
The conversation focused on how Starlink could revolutionize Bangladesh’s internet connectivity, particularly in underserved areas. Yunus and Musk emphasized the potential of high-speed, low-cost internet to empower rural communities, small entrepreneurs, and vulnerable women by bridging the digital divide. They discussed how this initiative could drive growth in education, healthcare, and the economy, while giving millions of small business owners access to global markets.
Prof. Yunus expressed his excitement about integrating Starlink into Bangladesh’s infrastructure, suggesting that it would help the country become more connected to the global digital economy. He compared the initiative to Grameen Bank’s pioneering work in connecting rural women and youth to the world through microfinance and mobile technology, envisioning the next generation of global entrepreneurs.
Elon Musk acknowledged Grameen Bank’s significant impact on global poverty alleviation, recognizing the potential of technologies like Starlink to drive innovation and financial inclusion. Musk also expressed his support for the initiative and was enthusiastic about the prospects of working with Yunus on this transformative project.
Prof. Yunus extended an invitation to Musk to visit Bangladesh for the potential launch of Starlink services, underscoring its significance for national development. Musk responded positively, saying, “I look forward to it.”
This discussion marks a significant step toward bringing advanced satellite internet to Bangladesh, with both parties agreeing to expedite progress on the initiative. Dr. Rahman, Dreyer, and Griffiths have been tasked with coordinating the next steps in the partnership.