Home ›› 20 Mar 2023 ›› Front
Bangladesh has launched an “AI-based Innovation Challenge 2023” in a bid to simplify the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ official processes by using artificial intelligence technology.
Jointly organised by the foreign affairs ministry and Aspire to Innovate-A2I, the competition was inaugurated by Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen at the ministry’s Segunbagicha office on Sunday.
Foreign Secretary Masood Bin Momen, ICT Secretary Md Samsul Arefin, A2I’s Policy Advisor Anir Chowdhury attended the ceremony among many others. An Innovation Corner was also inaugurated at the ministry premises.
On the occasion, Foreign Minister announced the auspicious opening of Innovation Lab.
He then said, “Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is working tirelessly to build a prosperous, knowledge-based and inclusive country, based on the principles adopted by Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
“In terms of making policies, the need for artificial intelligence, data-based analytics and data visualization systems will increase in the future.”
The foreign minister pointed out that due to the pragmatic initiatives of the government, Bangladesh has now transformed into a vibrant economy and a country of infinite potential.
Foreign Secretary Ambassador Masood bin Momen presented the keynote at the event. In his speech, he emphasised on the use of advanced technology to provide public services.
He expressed optimism that the Innovation Lab and AI Challenge Fund will strengthen the ICT capabilities of the Ministry of External Affairs, and directly connect with the technological capabilities of the future world.
Secretary of information and communication technology department Md Samsul Arefin, said, “If an artificial intelligence network can be used in data-based decision-making in the international context, we will go a long way in terms of diplomatic data analysis in the future.
“The use of artificial intelligence technology in the communication process, with various missions of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs worldwide, will open up new possibilities and make it easier to take intelligent decisions in the national interest.”
Appreciating this joint initiative between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and A2I, Resident Representative of UNDP Bangladesh Stefan Liller said, “This partnership is a great example of how we can work together to solve problems by harnessing the power of innovation.”
A2I’s policy advisor Anir Chowdhury said, “By participating in the ‘AI Innovation Challenge 2023’ competition, various individuals and institutions of the country will get an opportunity to keep up with innovation in this field.
“From which many innovative ideas are expected to emerge, and this will make a significant contribution in facilitating the mission activities of the Ministry of External Affairs.”
