France seeks to deepen relations with Bangladesh, says its envoy

The ambassador says Bangladesh is central to France’s Indo-Pacific strategy

Ambassador Jean-Marc Séré-Charlet has said France is keen to advance bilateral relations with fresh momentum, emphasising democracy, development and regional cooperation.

After meeting with Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus on Tuesday at the State Guest House Jamuna, the ambassador noted that Bangladesh is approaching a “historic national election”, calling it an ideal moment to deepen France-Bangladesh partnership.

A statement from the Chief Advisor’s Office later outlined the details of the visit.

Séré-Charlet, who assumed duties earlier this month, described Bangladesh as central to France’s Indo-Pacific strategy, noting that around 1.5 million French nationals live in the region, roughly three percent of France’s population.

He highlighted the Indo-Pacific as an open and freely navigable region with significant potential for strengthened engagement, including with Bangladesh.

He expressed hope that the next parliamentary elections will be “peaceful and credible”, adding that Bangladesh may draw on France’s experience in organising elections under challenging circumstances.

Praising Yunus’s leadership, the ambassador said France is keen to expand cooperation as Bangladesh moves towards graduation from the Least Developed Countries (LDC) category.

He also signalled France’s willingness to support Bangladesh’s efforts to tackle climate change.

Yunus welcomed France’s commitments, describing the country as a trusted, longstanding partner, expressing gratitude for France’s continued support for Bangladesh’s priorities, including democracy, human rights, climate action and inclusive development.