Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has stated that young innovators represent the country's future and that the government will always stand by them in their research, technological innovations, and startup ventures.

The Prime Minister made these remarks on Sunday afternoon (August 2) at the Prime Minister's Office in the Cabinet Division at the Bangladesh Secretariat, when he met with the world champion team of the international underwater robotic drone building competition, the MATE ROV International Underwater Robot Competition 2026. The information was shared by the Prime Minister's Deputy Press Secretary, Md. Sujauddoula.

The winning team members are students from the Military Institute of Science and Technology (MIST) in Bangladesh.

According to the Deputy Press Secretary, the Prime Minister congratulated the world champions on their monumental international success during the meeting. He also assured them of the government's all-out cooperation in their future research, technological development, and innovative initiatives.

Addressing the winning team for bringing extraordinary pride to the country on the global stage, the Prime Minister said that such innovations will take the nation's technological capabilities to new heights.

"To take Bangladesh further ahead, innovators, researchers, and tech entrepreneurs must come forward," the Prime Minister said. He added that if they wish to build tech-based startups, all necessary support will be provided through government startup programs.

Md. Sujauddoula noted that during the meeting, the MIST students showcased their award-winning underwater robot to the Prime Minister. Tarique Rahman inquired about the robot's design, technical capabilities, and practical applications.

The Prime Minister assured that necessary government assistance will be provided for the robot's further technological advancement, commercialization, and participation in future international competitions.

The Prime Minister also asked about the future plans of the MIST innovators. The students informed him that upon completing their studies, they are keen to work in the technology sector and pioneer new ventures of their own.

In response, Tarique Rahman reiterated that if they aim to establish tech-driven startups, the government will extend the requisite support through its startup initiatives.

Emphasizing the dynamism of the economy, the Prime Minister further stated that alongside the ready-made garment industry, the government is working to build a diversified export economy by strengthening high-potential sectors such as semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, furniture, and cosmetics.

Underscoring the semiconductor industry as a top priority, the government has taken initiatives to attract both domestic and foreign investment while cultivating a skilled workforce. The Prime Minister called upon Bangladeshi semiconductor experts working abroad to return home and contribute to the growth of this sector.

"If everyone works efficiently from their respective positions in every sector of the country, Bangladesh will progress even faster," the Prime Minister added.

The MATE ROV International Underwater Robot Competition 2026 was held from June 23 to 29 in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, featuring 88 teams from 18 countries.

Surpassing top-tier universities from countries including the United States, Canada, China, and Saudi Arabia, MIST's team "MIST Maverick" secured first place to claim the world championship title. The United States finished as the runner-up, while host country Canada placed third.

The meeting was attended by Defense Adviser Brigadier General (Retd.) A K M Shamsul Islam, MIST Commandant Major General Md. Hakimuzzaman, Head of the Electrical and Electronic Engineering Department Brigadier General K M Mostafizur Rahman, and 10 student representatives from the winning team.