DOGE Cancels International Projects to Cut US Government Spending

The DOGE, led by Elon Musk, has cancelled a USD 29 million project aimed at enhancing the political landscape in Bangladesh as part of a larger initiative to reduce government spending. Alongside this, discussions are ongoing for potential collaboration on Starlink internet services between Musk and Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser. Several other international projects have been scrapped as part of the agency’s campaign to streamline expenditures.

The Elon Musk-led Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has recently decided to cancel various overseas projects to save US taxpayers’ money. Notably, one of the canceled initiatives included a USD 29 million funding program aimed at “strengthening the political landscape in Bangladesh.” This decision was made in a bid to significantly reduce government spending.

In a related discussion, Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser, Professor Muhammad Yunus, met with Musk about a potential collaboration for the Starlink satellite internet service in Bangladesh. They discussed introducing satellite technology to improve internet access, particularly for marginalized communities and women in rural areas. Yunus extended an invitation for Musk to visit Bangladesh for the potential launch of Starlink services, to which Musk positively responded saying, “I look forward to it.”

Additionally, DOGE has also canceled several other international spending projects. This includes USD 22 million intended for enhancing voter turnout in India, USD 39 million for biodiversity conservation in Nepal, and USD 14 million focused on social cohesion in Mali. Other cancellations include USD 1.5 million aimed at enhancing voter confidence in Liberia.

Further on its list, DOGE announced the cancellation of USD 32 million slated for the Prague Civil Society Centre, and USD 40 million designated for a gender equality and women’s empowerment hub. Their ongoing campaign highlights significant budget cuts while also revealing mechanisms for managing taxpayer funds more efficiently.

President Donald Trump has criticized the US Agency for International Development (USAID) for perceived corruption and inefficiencies, suggesting that the agency’s operations should be reconsidered or completely dissolved. This stance aligns with DOGE’s mission to enhance government efficiency and accountability as part of a broader movement to streamline federal spending, following recent revelations of improper fund management.

DOGE’s recent cancellations mark a strategic initiative to trim unnecessary expenditures in international projects, including significant funding aimed at political and social enhancements in various countries. The discussions between Yunus and Musk indicate potential future investments in digital infrastructure, highlighting the dual focus on reducing costs while exploring innovative technological solutions to improve service access in Bangladesh. This aligns with broader criticisms surrounding the effectiveness of USAID and government spending.

Original Source: www.aninews.in