Bangladesh is beginning to view artificial intelligence not only as an economic opportunity, but as a tool of foreign policy and global influence. The country remains mid-to-lower tier in international measures of innovation and AI readiness, but its strategic location, large workforce, growing digital economy and relationships with major powers give Dhaka opportunities to participate in emerging technology diplomacy.
The challenge is that Bangladesh still faces significant capability gaps in research, infrastructure, advanced computing, skilled talent and institutional capacity. The article argues that Bangladesh therefore should not attempt to compete directly with the U.S. or China in frontier AI. Instead, it can focus on areas where a developing economy can build influence—AI governance, digital inclusion, data policy, skills development and partnerships with countries and technology companies.
This approach could also strengthen Bangladesh's position within the wider Indo-Pacific and Global South. By engaging with countries and institutions on AI standards, responsible deployment and technology access, Dhaka could position itself as a bridge between advanced technology powers and developing economies. Its existing interest in deeper engagement with ASEAN and its strategic position around the Bay of Bengal make technology diplomacy potentially useful alongside traditional economic and geopolitical diplomacy.
The broader takeaway is that AI influence does not require Bangladesh to build the world's most powerful model. Its opportunity may lie in becoming a credible participant in the rules, partnerships and institutions shaping AI's global expansion. If Bangladesh can combine investment in domestic talent and infrastructure with a coherent international technology strategy, AI could become a new instrument of diplomatic relevance rather than simply another technology sector it consumes.
