Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus held an extensive video discussion on Thursday with Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX, Tesla, and X, to explore future collaborations and advance the introduction of Starlink satellite internet service in Bangladesh.

The virtual meeting included Khalilur Rahman, High Representative for the Rohingya Crisis and Priority Issues, and Lamiya Morshed, Principal Coordinator of SDGs, representing Bangladesh. On the SpaceX side, Vice President Lauren Dreyer and Global Engagement Adviser Richard Griffiths were present.

During the discussion, Dr. Yunus and Musk emphasized the transformational impact of Starlink’s satellite communication, particularly for Bangladesh’s enterprising youth, rural women, and remote communities. They highlighted how high-speed, low-cost internet connectivity could bridge the digital divide, empowering education, healthcare, and economic development in underserved regions. This initiative would also provide millions of small and micro-entrepreneurs in Bangladesh with opportunities to access global markets.

Dr. Yunus underscored that integrating Starlink’s connectivity into Bangladesh’s infrastructure would create new opportunities and integrate the country more closely into the global digital economy. He expressed enthusiasm about working alongside Musk to unlock technology-driven social and economic growth in Bangladesh and beyond.
He further stated that Starlink would serve as an extension of Grameen Bank and Grameenphone’s pioneering efforts in connecting rural women and young people to the world. “They would become global women and kids and global entrepreneurs,” Dr. Yunus said.

Elon Musk praised the Grameen Bank microfinance model, acknowledging its significant global impact on poverty alleviation. He mentioned that he has been familiar with the work of both Grameen Bank and Grameen Village Phone for many years. Musk expressed confidence that technological advancements such as Starlink could drive innovation, economic empowerment, and financial inclusion in Bangladesh.

Dr. Yunus extended an invitation to Musk to visit Bangladesh for the potential launch of Starlink services, emphasizing the importance of this initiative for national development. Musk responded positively, saying, “I look forward to it.”

This engagement marks a major step towards bringing advanced satellite connectivity to Bangladesh, fostering economic growth, digital inclusion, and innovation across the nation. Both parties agreed to expedite progress on this initiative, assigning High Representative Rahman, Dreyer, and Griffiths to coordinate further efforts.
The potential rollout of Starlink in Bangladesh is expected to significantly enhance digital accessibility and unlock new socio-economic opportunities for millions in the country.