Swedish Ambassador to Bangladesh Nicolas Weeks paid a courtesy call on Minister for Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology, and Science and Technology Faqir Mahbub Anam at the office of Posts and Telecommunications Division on Sunday.
During the meeting, detailed discussions were held regarding bilateral cooperation between Bangladesh and Sweden, digital transformation, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI), digital public infrastructure, and investment prospects in the technology sector.
Special emphasis was placed during the talks on the “One ID–One Wallet” initiative, secure digital identity systems, security in online financial transactions, and the expansion of citizen-friendly digital services.
Both sides highlighted the importance of enhancing cooperation through secure banking and identity technology, protection of personal data, and mutual exchange of experiences.
Speaking at the meeting, the minister said the government is working to safeguard citizens’ personal data and ensure cybersecurity alongside expanding digital services and infrastructure.
He said feedback from relevant ministries, law enforcement agencies, experts, media, technology institutions, and other stakeholders is being prioritised for this purpose.
Clarifying the objective of the cybersecurity law, he affirmed that it is not intended to control freedom of expression or the media, but rather to ensure effective measures against online harassment, propaganda, harmful content, and technology abuse.
He added that proposed laws and policies will maintain full respect for media freedom, civil rights, and freedom of expression. Regarding artificial intelligence, both sides exchanged views on its potential, challenges, and responsible usage.
The minister highlighted that while harnessing the potential of AI, considerations must be given to employment, human resource development, data reliability, and ethical use of technology.
He emphasised prioritising future employment opportunities and technology-based skill development, particularly for the country’s vast youth population and fresh graduates.
In response, the Swedish ambassador stressed the importance of integrated participation among the government, private sector, academic institutions, and civil society, adding that immense opportunities exist for sharing knowledge, skills, and experience between Bangladesh and Sweden.
Nicolas Weeks expressed the interest of relevant Swedish institutions in cooperating towards developing Bangladesh’s digital public infrastructure and strengthening cybersecurity.
He remarked that a predictable regulatory environment, a level playing field, and multi-faceted technology partnerships play a vital role in expanding cooperation and investment across critical digital infrastructure, telecommunications, cybersecurity, and high-tech sectors.
The meeting also covered safe internet usage for children and adolescents, the role of parents in social media engagement, and the importance of digital education.
Both sides underscored the integrated role of families, educational institutions, the state, and technology platforms in fostering online safety and building responsible digital citizenship.
First Secretary of the Swedish Embassy Olle Lundin was present during the meeting.
Following the call, both parties expressed optimism about further bolstering existing communication and collaboration in digital technology, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and innovative technology sectors between Bangladesh and Sweden.
