The Bangladesh Association of Software and Information Services (BASIS) has launched a BASIS America Desk to facilitate Bangladeshi technology entrepreneurs with counterparts from the United States of America in boosting revenue from solution exports.

Prime Minister's Advisor Salman F Rahman was the chief guest, while Minister of State Zunaid Ahmed Palak virtually joined the session as the special guest at the launching ceremony at a city hotel on Sunday.

US Ambassador Peter D Haas attended the programme as a guest of honour, chaired by BASIS President Russell T Ahmed. The US is the largest export destination for Bangladeshi software and information technology products and services, accounting for about 27% of total export earnings.

BASIS America Desk will serve as a dedicated platform that showcases the latest technological advancements to American companies and investors, facilitates information exchange through seminars and B2B meetings, and organises training programmes and workshops, thereby playing a leading role in enhancing the skills and knowledge exchange for BASIS members.

The US envoy Peter has expressed his enthusiasm for this initiative and emphasised the mutual benefits for both countries.

“BASIS America Desk represents an important milestone in the growing collaboration between the ICT sectors of Bangladesh and the United States. The transition from a closed market to an open market is more favourable. Bangladesh can leverage AI to improve the efficiency of its apparel and software exports," he said.

The BASIS president discussed the strategic vision of the BASIS America Desk and the future prospects of BASIS.

Salman F Rahman hoped that the BASIS America Desk would establish strategic and friendly relations between the tech companies of Bangladesh and America.

“It will encourage joint research and development projects in advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, IoT and cyber security. BASIS must take on the role of guiding and nurturing its member companies to ensure that they carry out their activities effectively,” he said.

BASIS Former President Shameem Ahsan, Senior Vice President M Rashidul Hasan and Vice President Syed Mohammad Kamal and Director Mostafizur Rahaman Sohel were also present while Director Asif Rahman made the keynote presentation.