Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has called on Banglalink to help make smartphones more affordable and explore further reductions in internet prices, saying that wider access to digital services is essential for people from every part of society.
The approach came during a meeting on Monday with Augie Fabela, Chairman of VEON, the parent company of Banglalink, at the Prime Minister’s Office in the Jatiya Sangsad complex.
The discussions focused on expanding digital connectivity and improving access to technology across Bangladesh, according to a statement from the prime minister's press wing.
During the meeting, the Prime Minister encouraged the mobile operator to introduce initiatives that would reduce the cost of smartphones, making them more accessible to people from different income groups.
He said, "Broader smartphone ownership would help ensure that more citizens could benefit from the country’s growing digital economy.”
The PM also urged Banglalink to consider lowering internet charges further, with the aim of making online services more affordable and increasing digital participation nationwide.
The discussions reflected the government’s broader efforts to strengthen digital inclusion by improving access to both mobile devices and internet connectivity.
Those attending the meeting included Post, Telecommunications, Information Technology and Science and Technology Minister Faqir Mahbub Anam; the Prime Minister’s Adviser on Post, Telecommunications, Information Technology and Science and Technology Rehan Asif Asad; VEON Board Member Michiel Soeting; and Banglalink Chief Executive Officer Johan Hendrik Martinus Buse.
No further details of any specific commitments or agreements were announced following the meeting.
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