Bridging Bangladesh: Virtual Meeting Between Professor Yunus and Elon Musk on Starlink Expansion
A virtual meeting was held between Professor Muhammad Yunus, Chief Advisor, and technology entrepreneur Elon Musk to discuss the launch of Starlink satellite internet in Bangladesh, according to the Press Wing.
Representing Bangladesh in the meeting were Dr. Khalilur Rahman, High Representative for the Rohingya Crisis and Special Priority Issues, and Lamia Morshed, Chief Coordinator for SDGs. On behalf of SpaceX, Vice President Loren Dreyer and Global Engagement Advisor Richard Griffiths participated.
Professor Yunus and Elon Musk explored the potential of Starlink in bringing digital connectivity to remote areas of Bangladesh, benefiting rural populations, young entrepreneurs, and women.
They emphasized that fast and affordable internet would advance the country's education, healthcare, and economy while enabling small and medium-sized entrepreneurs to access international markets.
Professor Yunus stated, "Starlink connectivity will further enrich Bangladesh's digital infrastructure and strengthen the country's ties with the global economy."
He added that Starlink would continue the legacy of Grameen Bank and Grameenphone in connecting rural women and youth to the world. "They will become global women, global children, and global entrepreneurs," he remarked.
Elon Musk praised the microfinance model of Grameen Bank and acknowledged its role in poverty alleviation.
"I have been aware of the work of Grameen Bank and Grameenphone for many years, and I believe that leveraging technological advancements through Starlink can foster further innovation and economic inclusion in Bangladesh," Musk stated.
As part of the formal process of launching Starlink in Bangladesh, Professor Yunus extended an invitation to Musk, to which he responded positively.
"I look forward to coming," said Musk.
Both sides agreed to expedite the implementation of Starlink in Bangladesh and assigned Dr. Rahman, Loren Dreyer, and Richard Griffiths to coordinate the next steps.
