French Ambassador Jean-Marc Séré-Charlet paid a courtesy call on Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus at the State Guest House Jamuna on Tuesday, marking their first official meeting.
During the meeting, the ambassador expressed his gratitude for the warm reception and highlighted his commitment to fostering stronger bilateral relations between France and Bangladesh. He emphasized France and Europe`s desire to remain long-term partners dedicated to supporting the country’s development.
Following the meeting, a press release from the French Embassy in Dhaka stated: “France welcomes the electoral process initiated by Prof Yunus and the interim government and commends Prof Yunus` leadership.”
The release further noted France’s support for “the holding of free, fair and peaceful elections,” and welcomed Bangladeshi authorities’ interest in deploying an EU electoral observation mission.
“At a time when peace and security are under threat in many parts of the world, democracy must be supported and protected from all forms of external interference and threats, such as disinformation campaigns like those faced by European states from Russia,” the release said.
France also praised the interim government for its efforts in achieving macroeconomic stability. With Bangladesh preparing for LDC graduation in 2026, the EU expressed readiness to discuss next steps and aims to be considered a reliable long-term partner.
The press release highlighted the importance of establishing structural cooperation, citing a potential partnership in civil aviation with Airbus as an example of long-term engagement.
France has been active in Bangladesh’s climate change adaptation initiatives, with the French Development Agency (AFD) investing around €2 billion over the past decade to mitigate climate change impacts and preserve biodiversity. France intends to continue this collaboration with Bangladeshi authorities.
The two countries also share strong cultural, scientific, and educational ties, particularly through the Alliances Françaises in Dhaka and Chittagong, which have been promoting language and arts for over 65 years. France is keen on expanding student mobility as more Bangladeshi students opt for higher education in France.
France commended Bangladesh for hosting Rohingya refugees and reaffirmed its commitment to international efforts aimed at finding a long-term solution. “Last week, France voted in favour of the United Nations resolution to address this crisis.”
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