France’s ambassador says a fair and level business environment is essential to attract more European investment, as Dhaka and Paris explore stronger cooperation in trade, investment and aviation.
France’s ambassador to Bangladesh Jean-Marc Séré-Charlet on Monday stressed the need for a fair and level playing field to attract greater European investment, saying improved business conditions would encourage stronger engagement by EU companies.
The envoy made the remarks during a courtesy call on Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam Rita at the Secretariat, where both sides discussed issues of mutual interest. State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M Rashiduzzaman Millat also attended the meeting.
Séré-Charlet said France was keen to work closely with Bangladesh’s new government to deepen cooperation and unlock new opportunities in trade, investment and aviation.
Talks focused on the growing bilateral partnership in civil aviation and prospects for expanding existing links between the two countries.
Highlighting France’s role as a key development partner and an important export destination for Bangladesh, the ambassador pointed to strong collaboration between French company Thales and the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh, particularly at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka.
He noted the successful operational transition of Bangladesh’s nationwide Air Traffic Management System, according to a statement from the French Embassy.
The ambassador also underscored the commitment of European aircraft manufacturer Airbus to supporting the development of Bangladesh’s aviation sector.
Bangladesh’s strategic location between South Asia and Southeast Asia offers significant potential to become a regional aviation hub, he said.
Séré-Charlet added that closer cooperation with Airbus would not only strengthen the country’s fleet capacity but also enhance its broader aviation ecosystem, reflecting Bangladesh’s intention to build a long-term partnership with the European Union in civil aviation.
