Published: 07:13 PM, 09 October 2026
Shama Obaid emphasizes AI as core driver for a trillion-dollar economy
The “AI and Innovation Dialogue” was held on October 8, 2026, at the Governance Innovation Unit (GIU) Auditorium in Segun Bagicha, Dhaka. Jointly organized by the GIU of the Prime Minister's Office and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the conference highlighted Bangladesh’s push to place Artificial Intelligence (AI) at the core of its tech diplomacy and public service delivery.
Prime Minister's IT Adviser Rehan Asif Asad announced plans to launch a domestic Sovereign AI infrastructure within 12 months.
State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam emphasized AI as a core driver for achieving a trillion-dollar economy.
Governance & Collaboration: Chief Guest Md Ismail Zabihullah underscored the importance of a unified government framework for public services, while the ITIT Wing and UNDP proposed an AI Policy Lab in Dhaka.
The event engaged representatives from 25 international organizations and 85 diplomatic missions, alongside industry and academic leaders.
