Elon Musk’s DOGE Cancels $29 Million Funding for Bangladesh
The Elon Musk-led DOGE canceled $29 million in funding for Bangladesh aimed at strengthening its political landscape. This follows a $21 million cancellation for voter turnout in India as part of broader budget cuts by the Trump administration. Other significant funding projects in various countries were also halted, reflecting a strong emphasis on fiscal savings.
On February 16, 2025, the Elon Musk-led Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) announced the cancellation of $29 million in funding for Bangladesh, originally designated to enhance the nation’s political landscape. This decision was made as part of a broader initiative to save taxpayer money amidst ongoing government spending cuts aimed at reducing federal expenditures. This move follows the earlier cancellation of a $21 million funding for voter turnout efforts in India.
In the announcement, DOGE noted that the cancellation of international funding projects is key to achieving fiscal responsibility. Among the various funding cutbacks were projects in Nepal totaling $39 million for fiscal federalism and biodiversity conservation, $14 million for social cohesion efforts in Mali, and several more across different countries. The department stated, “USD 29M to ‘strengthening the political landscape in Bangladesh'” to highlight the allocation that has now been stopped.
The funding withdrawals underscore the administration’s focus on budget reductions that have been prioritized by President Donald Trump. Elon Musk, who has been advocating for drastic cuts to avert potential bankruptcy for the U.S., indicated that significant financial resources are being redirected towards domestic concerns. Other cancellations include $47 million aimed at improving learning outcomes in Asia and funds intended for gender equality initiatives in Serbia.
In a related development, Professor Muhammad Yunus, Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser, engaged in discussions with Elon Musk regarding the potential launch of the Starlink satellite internet service in Bangladesh. Yunus emphasized the importance of this initiative for national progress during their exchange, inviting Musk to visit Bangladesh for the service’s introduction. Musk responded positively, expressing eagerness to collaborate on this venture.
The cancellation of significant international funding by the DOGE, notably the $29 million for Bangladesh, reflects ongoing priorities of budget cuts under the Trump administration. The decision aims to save taxpayer money amid a series of other funding reductions across various nations. Meanwhile, discussions on potential internet service collaborations with Elon Musk indicate ongoing interest in technological development in Bangladesh.
Original Source: www.republicworld.com
