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The Chief Executive Officer of Banglalink, Johan Buse, has called for a faster shift towards digital banking and reforms in the telecommunications sector, saying Bangladesh must modernise its digital infrastructure to improve accessibility and affordability for consumers.
In a sideline interview during an iftar event for journalists, he said digital banking could significantly transform financial inclusion in the country by offering services that are easier and cheaper than traditional banking systems.
"Digital banks are very different compared to traditional banks because they make services affordable and digitally accessible," he said, noting that such services can eliminate the need for costly physical branches and paperwork.
Drawing on his experience abroad, Buse cited the efficiency of fully digital financial services.
"In Singapore, I can open a bank account on my smartphone in less than three minutes," he said, highlighting how streamlined processes can reduce barriers to financial services.
Referring to the digital banking initiative, Buse said Banglalink's parent company, VEON, has submitted an application seeking a licence to establish a digital bank in Bangladesh.
"We're very keen on being part of that ecosystem, and the group has ample experience," he said, pointing to VEON's global expertise in digital services.
The discussion also touched on broader challenges faced by the telecommunications industry in Bangladesh.
Buse expressed concern over the high cost of spectrum, arguing that current pricing structures place undue pressure on operators.
"Spectrum is too expensive," he said, adding that the existing market structure raises questions about competitiveness and sustainability for private telecom operators.
He also highlighted the potential for stronger collaboration within the telecommunications sector, particularly involving the state-owned operator Teletalk Bangladesh.
Buse suggested that the government could encourage partnerships between its subsidiaries and experienced private-sector operators to strengthen service delivery and technological capabilities.
He noted that such collaboration could combine the public sector's reach with the operational experience, innovation, and investment capacity of private operators.
Banglalink, he added, would be keen to explore opportunities to partner with Teletalk, bringing together the strengths of both organisations to enhance network quality, accelerate digital services, and better serve consumers across the country.
Despite the challenges, the Banglalink CEO expressed optimism about Bangladesh's economic prospects after what he described as a difficult period in recent years.
He said improvements in infrastructure, digital services, and policy reforms could strengthen prosperity and public welfare.
Acknowledging his position as a foreign executive in the country, Buse said his motivation remains focused on contributing to Bangladesh's development.
"I may be a bit of an odd person because I am an outsider," he said. "But the reason I came to this country is to ensure that people benefit."
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