Bangladesh working on human-centric national AI policy: ICT minister tells Shanghai AI conference
Published: 18 July 2026, 5:52:04
Photo: PID
Bangladesh is working to establish a modern, safe and responsible artificial intelligence (AI) governance system based on human rights, ethics and inclusive development under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, said ICT Minister Faqir Mahbub Anam.
He made the remarks while speaking on behalf of Bangladesh at the “High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance”, organised as part of the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) 2026 in Shanghai, China, on Saturday, according to a press release.
The minister said the government was reforming the country’s digital policies and laws in line with the changing times to harness the potential of AI for public welfare while ensuring effective governance to address its potential risks.
Faqir Mahbub Anam said Bangladesh is advancing work on an integrated and inclusive national AI policy under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.
At the same time, initiatives are being implemented to strengthen personal data protection and cyber security, formulate guidelines for AI use in the public sector, ensure responsible data management, expand AI-based education and establish decentralised AI Centres of Excellence in different parts of the country, he said.
The minister outlined four fundamental priorities for global AI governance: safety, equity, adaptability and international cooperation.
He said the international community must work together to ensure technology transfer, capacity building, data sovereignty and fair access to technology for developing countries.
The minister further said the future of AI should reflect not only technological excellence but also human values, justice and inclusion, adding that Bangladesh is calling for stronger global cooperation to achieve that goal.
The meeting, held under the theme “AI Partnership for a Brighter Future”, discussed the effective use of AI to accelerate sustainable development, strengthen collective security, ensure inclusive development and reinforce global AI governance.
Heads of government from different countries, ministers and delegations from more than 100 countries, heads of international organisations, industry representatives and prominent academics attended the meeting. They exchanged views on the future of AI, its governance and ways to strengthen global cooperation in the sector.
The four-day World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) 2026 is being held in Shanghai from 17 to 20 July.
