Newly appointed Ambassador of France to Bangladesh Jean-Marc Séré-Charlet has expressed France’s readiness to initiate a new phase in its bilateral relations with Bangladesh, underscoring the strong alignment of interests between the two nations, particularly in the areas of democracy, development, and regional cooperation.
Ambassador Séré-Charlet made the remarks during a courtesy call on the Chief Adviser of the Interim Government, Professor Muhammad Yunus, at the State Guest House Jamuna on Tuesday.
The Ambassador expressed France’s expectation of a peaceful and credible election in Bangladesh in February and indicated that Bangladesh could benefit from France’s experience in conducting elections under challenging circumstances, said Chief Adviser’s Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad.
As Bangladesh was heading to key general elections, he shared that some European nations have been contacted to confront orchestrated disinformation campaigns and efforts to create societal division in the electoral context.
The Ambassador stated that Bangladesh stands at an important juncture as the nation approaches a historic national election.
“This is a timely moment for France and Bangladesh to advance our partnership and expand our cooperation,” he said.
Ambassador Séré-Charlet, who assumed office earlier this month, highlighted Bangladesh’s importance within France’s Indo-Pacific strategy.
He noted that approximately 1.5 million French citizens reside in the Indo-Pacific region, accounting for nearly three percent of France’s total population.
“The Indo-Pacific remains a region defined by openness and free movement. France sees significant potential for enhanced engagement with Bangladesh,” he added.
