Dhaka: Chief Adviser's Special Assistant for the Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications, and Information Technology, Faiz Ahmad Taiyeb, today called on France to assist in providing advanced-level training for Bangladeshi fact-checkers, emphasizing the critical role of fact-checking in combating election-related misinformation and disinformation.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Taiyeb made these remarks during a meeting with the French Ambassador to Dhaka, Jean-Marc S©r©-Charlet, at the Secretariat's Posts and Telecommunication Division office. He highlighted the collaborative efforts of various agencies, including law enforcement, to develop a national framework aimed at tackling misinformation, underscoring the necessity of advanced training from France in this arena.
Taiyeb also elaborated on the Bangladesh government's initiatives in crafting new laws and technology-based administrative frameworks, such as the cyber security law, personal information protection law, digital citizen identity, and e-payment systems. Additionally, he mentioned ongoing work on digital ecosystems and data interoperability with assistance from Estonia.
The Special Assistant further pointed out the need for France's support in utilizing satellite imagery and enhancing the capacity of technology-based services. The French ambassador, in response, affirmed the shared democratic values between Bangladesh and France, noting Bangladesh's strategic significance in the Pacific region.
Ambassador S©r©-Charlet highlighted the affordability of studying in France due to government-subsidized tuition at French universities and engineering schools, presenting it as an advantageous opportunity for Bangladeshi students. He also mentioned France's space agency and research institutes' willingness to offer imagery and academic support free of charge.
The meeting covered a wide range of topics, including digital cooperation, cyber security, advancements in the telecommunication sector, and future action plans. Both parties expressed optimism for enhanced collaboration going forward.
Economic Counselor of the French Embassy, Julien Diu, was also present at the meeting.