Bangladesh, France seek stronger aviation, space ties

Bangladesh and France have discussed strengthening cooperation in aviation, space, trade and investment as the two countries seek to deepen their longstanding bilateral partnership.

The issues came up during a meeting between French Ambassador to Bangladesh Jean-Marc Séré-Charlet and State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the capital on September 17.

The state minister highlighted trade and investment, defence, aviation, education, culture and human capital development as key areas for greater engagement between the two countries.

He also encouraged greater French investment in Bangladesh, particularly in promising sectors including infrastructure, renewable energy, space, technology and pharmaceuticals.

The two sides also discussed ways to enhance cooperation in aviation, alongside broader economic and development priorities.

Kobir expressed Bangladesh's interest in expanding legal and regular labour mobility opportunities with France. He reaffirmed Bangladesh's zero-tolerance policy towards irregular migration and human trafficking and said Bangladesh was ready to work closely with France to address these challenges.

The ambassador reaffirmed France's readiness to enhance cooperation across areas of mutual interest and expressed interest in working closely with Bangladesh.

The meeting also covered preparations and expectations for the upcoming UN General Assembly, as well as regional and global issues, including climate change and multilateral engagement.

Kobir appreciated France's continued humanitarian support for the 1.3 million Rohingyas sheltered in Bangladesh. Both sides expressed readiness to work together for their safe, voluntary and dignified repatriation.