3-point proposals for Bangladesh to build non-discriminatory digital future

Minister for Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology and Science and Technology Faqir Mahbub Anam has presented three-point proposals on behalf of Bangladesh to build an inclusive, safe and non-discriminatory digital future in the global cyber space. He emphasized strengthening multilateral cyber governance, ensuring easy access to technology and knowledge, and reducing digital inequality.

He presented these proposals as a special guest at the opening ceremony of the World Internet Conference-2026 held in the historic city of Xi'an, China on Wednesday (July 22). The minister said that just as the ancient Silk Road connected civilizations, knowledge and trade, it is possible to build a safe, prosperous and sustainable cyber future through international cooperation in the current digital era.

Highlighting the digital progress of Bangladesh, Faqir Mahbub Anam said that about 65 percent of the country's 180 million people are young and working. The government is implementing various initiatives to build a technology-based and knowledge-based modern Bangladesh by utilizing this demographic potential. Currently, more than 90 percent of the country's population has come under the coverage of mobile connectivity. Banking facilities have also reached the marginalized population through mobile financial services. In addition, the use of digital technology in various government services including national portals, d-documents, land management and healthcare is playing an important role in reducing the time and cost of citizens.

He also emphasized on linking digital transformation with artificial intelligence (AI), research, innovation and human resource development, not limiting it to infrastructure construction. The minister also said that Bangladesh is increasing investment in AI research, fintech innovation, data center development and implementation of technology-based solutions in flood forecasting and agriculture.

He highlighted three proposals for joint global progress at the conference. These are, enhancing the capacity of youth through skill development and knowledge transfer, ensuring affordable digital connectivity by facilitating technology transfer, and opening up technological knowledge and data infrastructure for global welfare under the concept of digital public goods.

He also highlighted the need to build an international law-based, transparent and multilateral cyber governance system to address new challenges such as cybercrime, disinformation and data colonialism. In the concluding part of his speech, the Minister said that the main foundation of the ancient Silk Road was mutual trust and confidence. Similarly, the global partnership in the digital age must also be founded on trust, cooperation and innovation. Bangladesh is ready to work as a responsible and reliable partner in this journey.

About 800 representatives from 52 countries and regions of the world have participated in this two-day conference. Discussions are being held in various sessions on artificial intelligence, digital trade, e-commerce, smart healthcare, preservation of cultural heritage and global digital cooperation. Representatives of the world's top technology companies are also participating in it.