Fri Feb 14 16:46:42 UTC 2025: **Elon Musk’s Starlink Eyed for Bangladesh Amidst Political Tensions**
DHAKA, BANGLADESH—Bangladesh’s interim government has formally requested Elon Musk to bring his Starlink satellite internet service to the country, seeking to leverage the tech billionaire’s influence and potentially garner U.S. diplomatic support. The request follows a video call between Musk and Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, who heads Bangladesh’s caretaker administration following a student-led revolution that ousted the previous government.
The call, which also occurred the same day Musk met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, emphasized the potential of Starlink to benefit Bangladesh’s youth, rural communities, and women in remote areas. While Yunus’ office publicized the positive discussions and Musk’s expressed interest in visiting Bangladesh, Musk himself has yet to comment publicly.
The move comes amidst strained relations between Bangladesh and India, a key supporter of the ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who remains in exile in New Delhi. The current political climate adds a layer of complexity to the Starlink proposal, raising questions about the interplay between Musk’s business ventures and his prominent role in the Trump administration.
First Piper 