Banglalink Showcases Bangladesh’s Digital Drive at Mobile World Congress 2026

At the world’s largest international telecommunications event, Mobile World Congress 2026, digital operator Banglalink represented Bangladesh on the global stage. In front of more than 100,000 participants from over 200 countries, the company not only highlighted the rapid growth of Bangladesh’s digital sector but also presented its plans for an artificial intelligence-driven transformation.

Banglalink, owned by Nasdaq-listed global operator VEON, currently operates in a vast market of 530 million people. At MWC, VEON Group Chief Executive Officer Kaan Terzioglu stated in his keynote address that providing connectivity alone is no longer the sole responsibility of telecom operators. Their objective, he said, is to remain relevant in every moment of the 1,440 minutes in a person’s day through digital services—an approach they refer to as the “DO1440” strategy. He emphasized the integration of financial services, healthcare, education, and entertainment within a unified digital ecosystem.

In the context of Bangladesh, Banglalink Chief Executive Officer Johan Buse noted that artificial intelligence has opened a new horizon in the country’s digital economy. He said, “The integration of AI into networks and services is taking traditional connectivity beyond its conventional boundaries to new heights. As a result, operators are playing a more active role in expanding digital and financial inclusion. In the context of Bangladesh, the combination of AI, connectivity, and digital platforms has unlocked a new realm of possibilities. Through partnerships and innovation, we can accelerate inclusive growth, expand financial inclusion, and build a resilient and future-ready digital economy.” Currently, Banglalink is using artificial intelligence and machine learning in its network management and customer support operations, significantly enhancing service quality and efficiency.

During the four-day event, top executives from Banglalink and VEON held meetings with representatives of the World Bank and the International Finance Corporation (IFC). Discussions focused on the development of digital infrastructure and the expansion of financial inclusion. It is noteworthy that over the past two decades, Banglalink has invested 2.5 billion US dollars in Bangladesh and has contributed more than 4 billion US dollars to the national treasury. The company has created employment opportunities for approximately 10,000 people, both directly and indirectly. Currently, Banglalink serves more than 38 million customers across the country.

DBTech/Bakul Roy/EK/OR