French Ambassador to Bangladesh Jean-Marc Séré-Charlet on Thursday paid a courtesy call on State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and discussed ways to further strengthen bilateral relations.

The ambassador congratulated Humaiun Kobir on assuming office and exchanged views with him on bilateral, regional and global issues.

The state minister appreciated France’s continued support for Bangladesh’s socio-economic development, democratic transition and institutional strengthening.

He expressed Bangladesh’s interest in expanding cooperation in trade and investment, defence, aviation, education, culture and human capital development.

They also discussed priorities and expectations for the upcoming United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), as well as climate change and multilateral engagement.

Humaiun Kobir encouraged greater French investment in Bangladesh, particularly in infrastructure, renewable energy, space, technology and pharmaceuticals.

He also stressed the need to expand legal and regular labour mobility between the two countries, while reaffirming Bangladesh’s zero-tolerance policy towards irregular migration and human trafficking.

The French envoy reaffirmed France’s readiness to deepen cooperation in areas of mutual interest and appreciated the government’s efforts towards democratic reforms.

The state minister appreciated France’s continued humanitarian support for the 1.3 million Rohingyas sheltered in Bangladesh.

Both sides expressed readiness to work together for the safe, voluntary and dignified repatriation of the Rohingyas to Myanmar.

The meeting concluded with both sides expressing confidence that continued engagement would further