French Ambassador Jean-Marc Séré-Charlet on Monday said aspirations for ‘non-discrimination’ and for an ‘inclusive’ Bangladesh continue to shape the current political landscape and civil society.

“France firmly believes that development can only be sustainable if it is inclusive,” said the French Ambassador, noting that citizens of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities face legal and social obstacles.

The Embassy of France, together with the Embassy of Germany, co-hosted a curated event, ‘Proloyer Daak’, celebrating diversity and the power of art on the eve of Pahela Boishak – the Bengali New Year.

The event brought together local craft makers and artists whose handcrafted works were on display, offering guests an opportunity to engage directly with the artisans and their practices.

A live traditional Bengali dance performance and food stalls serving local finger foods and desserts created a festive, community-centred atmosphere that honoured the cultural significance of the Bengali New Year.

The French Ambassador, German Ambassador Dr Rüdiger Lotz, and Deputy Secretary (Cultural Exchange Section) of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, Amitav Porag Talukder, spoke.

The French Ambassador said it was a great honour for the Embassy of France to host this event together with the Embassy of Germany and celebrate diversity and the power of art on the eve of Pohela Boishakh.

He said Bangladesh experienced a civic movement in July 2024, which changed the course of the country and led to the formation of a new government after the election in February.