VEON Limited, the Dubai-based parent company of Banglalink, is planning to bring Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite internet service to Bangladesh. The initiative aims to introduce satellite-based cellular connectivity in Bangladesh and several other markets where terrestrial networks remain inaccessible.
Speaking to Bloomberg during the World Economic Forum in Davos, VEON CEO Kaan Terzioğlu stated, “Our goal is to deliver services in markets where terrestrial networks have yet to reach.” He revealed that efforts are underway to expand satellite-based connectivity in Bangladesh, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan.
Banglalink, the third-largest mobile operator in Bangladesh, is owned by Global Telecom Holding, a subsidiary of VEON Limited.
“This is not just about wartime scenarios. Terrestrial networks have limitations,” Terzioğlu said. “In crises such as floods or fuel shortages, which are frequent in our markets, the need for both terrestrial and space-based networks becomes evident.”
VEON’s Ukraine-based subsidiary, Kyivstar PJSC, already has a partnership with Starlink. Under this agreement, the two companies plan to launch satellite-to-cell text messaging services by the end of 2024, with future expansions into voice and data services.
Starlink, which provides connectivity through satellites for smartphone users, is still in the process of global commercial rollout. The U.S. regulatory authority has already approved Starlink’s integration with T-Mobile’s cellular network as a complementary service.
However, Terzioğlu highlighted challenges in launching such services, noting, “Spectrum approvals are required, which are costly and not always readily available.”
VEON’s ambitions extend beyond telecom services, as it also aims to expand into financial services and entertainment sectors. Additionally, the company is exploring operations in markets like Vietnam, Ethiopia, and Mexico.
