‘Govt’s goal is qualitative connectivity’
Posts, Telecommunications, and Information Technology Minister Fakir Mahbub Anam stated that Bangladesh’s primary goal now is not merely connection, but quality and meaningful connectivity.
He made these remarks while addressing the inaugural ceremony of the 37th meeting of the Asia-Pacific Telecommunity (APT) Wireless Group (AWG-37) as the chief guest, held at the Grand Ballroom of the Radisson Blu Water Garden Hotel in the capital on Monday.
The Minister stated that as of July 2026, Bangladesh has approximately 191 million mobile subscriptions, with over 108 million subscribers using 4G services. The country has more than 49,000 4G sites, nearly 46,000 towers, and a 173,000-kilometer fiber-optic network.
The Minister added that the primary goal now is not merely to expand connectivity but to ensure quality, affordability, reliability, and meaningful connectivity.
At the same time, Bangladesh must enhance its capabilities in future technologies, including AI, cybersecurity, software, hardware, and 5G. He stated that the AWG serves as a vital platform for international cooperation, the exchange of experience, and preparation for future wireless technologies. He expressed his best wishes for the successful hosting of AWG-37.
The Minister further stated that the government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, is committed to expanding fast and reliable internet connectivity, strengthening national and international digital infrastructure, ensuring healthy competition, and making telecommunication services more affordable.
At the same time, the aim is to strengthen Bangladesh’s position in the global digital economy by enhancing digital capabilities in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, software, hardware, and other technology-driven industries.
Bilkis Jahan Rimi, Secretary of the Posts and Telecommunications Division, stated that the telecommunications sector is evolving rapidly. Timely policies, modern infrastructure, capacity building, and international cooperation are crucial to ensuring the benefits of new technologies.
Bangladesh’s long-standing cooperation with the APT plays a vital role in the exchange of knowledge and technology. I hope that this meeting will further strengthen the sharing of mutual experiences and regional cooperation.
The event was presided over by Major General (Retd.) Md. Emdad-ul-Bari, Chairman of the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC).
The AWG-37 meeting, attended by representatives and experts from various countries across the Asia-Pacific region, will address topics such as radio communication, spectrum management, emerging technologies, network management, and regulatory frameworks. The meeting will emphasize formulating regional recommendations on these matters and strengthening cooperation among member countries.
Stakeholders expressed optimism that hosting AWG-37 in Bangladesh would enhance international cooperation in the country’s telecommunications sector and further strengthen Bangladesh’s active participation at the regional level.
The event was attended by the BTRC Vice-Chairman, Commissioners, and high-level representatives from telecommunications regulatory bodies across the Asia-Pacific region, alongside APT Secretary General Dr. Masanori Kondo and APT Wireless Group Chairman Dr. Daejung Kim.
