Bangladesh
Hasina France Visit Hasina, Macron to bolster Bangladesh-France ties
Dhaka, November 11: Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has left for France at the invitation of French President Emmanuel Macron. The two leaders also met at the Elysee Palace in Paris on Wednesday (November 9). Issues such as bilateral relations, development, security, climate and the Rohingya crisis were also raised during the meeting. They expressed hope for further enhancement of mutual cooperation in these matters, according to a joint statement from the French President's office.
According to the statement, the meeting between the French President and the Prime Minister Hasina focused on the development of bilateral relations, international and regional issues, including the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries next year. Both sides mentioned the historic leadership of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and the valuable support of the French government and people for Bangladesh in the war of liberation.
The two countries reaffirmed their determination to enhance cooperation in all areas, including politics, diplomacy, defence and security, trade, investment, sustainable development, climate change, education and cultural exchanges.
Bangladesh and France have expressed interest in enhancing partnership in the defence and security sectors. To that end, both countries have agreed to continue dialogue and cooperation, especially in the area of training. The two countries are also committed to enhancing defence capabilities and enhancing cooperation in potential technology transfers. The signing of a will in this regard has been welcomed.
The issue of sending Bangladeshi peacekeepers to the UN has also been discussed. Besides, France has praised Bangladesh's generosity in providing shelter to Rohingyas. They also acknowledged that this has put a lot of pressure on Bangladesh. France and Bangladesh have stressed the need for safe repatriation of Rohingya to Myanmar.
After the COP26 conference, the two countries agreed to increase bilateral cooperation in environmental protection. France also praised Bangladesh's leadership in the Climate Vulnerable Forum. Both sides believe that the visit of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will mark the beginning of a new chapter in bilateral relations between Bangladesh and France.
