Dhaka: Bangladesh and France have reaffirmed their commitment to deepen bilateral cooperation with a renewed focus on migration management, education, and skills development during a meeting between State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam and French Ambassador Jean‑Marc Séré‑Charlet in Dhaka on Monday, March 16.

The French envoy paid a courtesy call on the state minister at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, congratulating her on assuming office and expressing optimism that bilateral relations between Bangladesh and France would grow stronger during her tenure, read a press release.

During the meeting, both sides placed particular emphasis on expanding cooperation in migration, education, and skills development to create greater opportunities for Bangladeshi students and skilled workers.

Shama Obaed Islam highlighted Bangladesh’s interest in strengthening academic collaboration, student exchanges, and capacity-building initiatives with France, noting that enhanced education cooperation could help develop a more skilled workforce capable of meeting global labor market demands.

Migration also featured prominently in the discussions, with the two sides exploring ways to promote safe, orderly, and regular migration while enhancing skills training and professional mobility for Bangladeshi workers.

The state minister acknowledged France’s longstanding development cooperation with Bangladesh across a range of sectors, including climate action, culture, women’s empowerment, sustainable development, and connectivity.

They also exchanged views on regional and global developments, underscoring the importance of dialogue, restraint, and respect for international law in maintaining global peace and stability.

During the meeting, Bangladesh sought France’s support for its candidature for the presidency of the United Nations General Assembly for the 2026–2027 term.

Ambassador Séré-Charlet reiterated France’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and working closely with Bangladesh to advance shared goals of peace, prosperity, and progress.