Paris, Dhaka hold talks on cultural exchange, migration issues

French Ambassador to Bangladesh Jean Marc Séré Charlet yesterday (Monday) paid a courtesy call on newly appointed State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with discussions highlighting cultural cooperation and migration as key pillars of bilateral relations.
According to the source of ministry, Ambassador Séré Charlet warmly congratulated the state minister on her recent assumption of duties and expressed optimism that ties between the two nations would be further strengthened during her tenure.
The discussions explored avenues for expanding cooperation in multiple sectors, with particular emphasis on cultural exchange and migration management alongside trade and investment, climate action, women empowerment, sustainable development, education and skills development, connectivity, and global peace and security.
Culture and migration take centre stage
Both sides acknowledged the importance of deepening cultural ties between Bangladesh and France, recognising the potential for people-to-people contact to foster mutual understanding and strengthen diplomatic relations. The meeting underscored opportunities for collaborative cultural programmes, educational exchanges, and artistic partnerships.
On migration, the discussions focused on managing regular migration flows and ensuring the welfare of Bangladeshi nationals in France. The state minister highlighted the contribution of the Bangladeshi diaspora to both economies and sought enhanced cooperation for skills development and legal migration pathways.
Regional and global cooperation
The two sides exchanged views on regional and global developments, emphasising the importance of dialogue, mutual respect, restraint, and respect for international law for maintaining peace, stability and security worldwide.
State Minister expressed Bangladesh's interest in exploring additional opportunities to deepen trade and investment relations with the European Union within existing frameworks, aiming to sustain the competitiveness of Bangladeshi exports in the EU market.
UNGA presidency bid

The state minister sought France's support for Bangladesh's candidature for the upcoming Presidency of the 81st Session of the UN General Assembly for the term 2026-2027.
Ambassador Séré Charlet reaffirmed France's commitment to further strengthening bilateral cooperation with Bangladesh to advance the shared vision of peace, prosperity, and progress.
The meeting reflects both nations' determination to build on their longstanding partnership while exploring new avenues for collaboration in cultural exchange and migration management, areas increasingly vital in today's interconnected world.