Bangladesh’s interim govt invites Elon Musk’s Starlink in bid to gain diplomatic leverage

The proposal is viewed as an attempt to secure diplomatic favour from the Trump administration, which, unlike President Biden’s government, does not seem to oppose Dhaka’s tenuous leadership.

During their meeting, Yunus and Musk highlighted that Starlink could create opportunities for "Bangladesh's enterprising youth, rural and vulnerable women, and remote communities," according to a statement from Yunus' media office, as cited by AFP.

Musk has also shown interest in visiting Bangladesh following an invitation from Yunus. A statement confirmed that he was "looking forward" to the visit, although he has not made any public remarks on the matter, including on X, the social media platform he owns.

The discussion between Musk and Yunus took place alongside Musk’s meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was in Washington at the invitation of US President Donald Trump.

Relations between India and Bangladesh have deteriorated since Yunus assumed power following last year’s uprising, which ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

India, a key ally of Hasina, has seen its influence in Dhaka decline, while Hasina remains in exile in New Delhi.

Bangladesh continues to push for her extradition, citing allegations related to the deaths of hundreds of protesters during the revolt that led to her removal.