French Ambassador to Bangladesh Jean-Marc Séré-Charlet on Monday highlighted the importance of ensuring a fair and level playing field to encourage greater engagement of European companies in Bangladesh.

France looks forward to working closely with the new government to deepen cooperation and advance new opportunities in trade, investment, and aviation.

The French Ambassador paid a courtesy call on Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam Rita at Secretariat and discussed the issues of mutual interest.

State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M. Rashiduzzaman Millat was also present at the meeting.

The meeting focused on the strong bilateral relations in the civil aviation sector and on exploring opportunities to develop existing links.

Noting France’s role as a key development partner and export destination for Bangladesh, the Ambassador highlighted the strong collaboration between Thales and CAAB, especially at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka.

He underlined the successful operational transition of the nationwide Air Traffic Management System, said the French Embassy after the meeting.

He also emphasised the commitment of the European company Airbus to supporting the development of Bangladesh’s aviation industry.

Bangladesh’s strategic location between South Asia and Southeast Asia offers significant potential for the country to emerge as a regional aviation hub, the French envoy said.

The Ambassador said the partnership with Airbus would not only strengthen fleet capacity but also enhance the overall aviation ecosystem of Bangladesh.

It would also demonstrate concretely the desire of Bangladesh to engage in a long-term partnership with the EU in the field of civil aviation.