Dhaka:State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir stated that the concept of 'Bangladesh First' signifies the nation's readiness to compete globally, emphasizing the importance of knowledge workers alongside garments and remittances as crucial economic pillars.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Kobir made these remarks during the 'AI and Innovation Dialogue' at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He highlighted that Bangladesh aims to achieve a trillion-dollar economy by 2034, as targeted by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, which would require the integration of knowledge workers as a significant economic force.
The dialogue underscored Bangladesh's strategy to place artificial intelligence, innovation, and advanced technology at the core of its economic and foreign policy. State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam noted that AI would play a pivotal role in Bangladesh's economic progression and emphasized reducing the technological gap between Dhaka and Silicon Valley.
Organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in collaboration with the Governance Innovation Unit of the Prime Minister's Office, the dialogue was part of Bangladesh's technology diplomacy efforts. This event marked the third thematic roundtable following the ministry's Roadmap for Trade, Growth, and Economic Diplomacy Conference held in June.
Md Ismail Zabihullah, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Public Administration Affairs, served as the chief guest, and Rehan Asif Asad, Adviser to the Prime Minister on technology-related matters, participated as a special guest. Secretary Salahuddin Noman Chowdhury opened the dialogue, asserting the significance of AI as a core component of Bangladesh's foreign policy and digital sovereignty.
Dr. Syed Muntasir Mamun, Director General of the International Trade, Investment and Technology Wing, moderated the session, which explored Bangladesh's AI development across five strategic areas. The session aimed to define specific actions and responsibilities for ministries and agencies, with plans to share the conclusions with international partners.
The dialogue was attended by senior government officials, diplomatic representatives, development partners, and participants from the technology industry, startups, academia, and think tanks.