In keeping with our push for strengthened relations with other nations, it is encouraging to see Bangladesh actively exploring further areas of cooperation with France.
The first ever visit from French President Emmanuel Macron to Bangladesh cemented both nations' pursuit of improved ties. The French President and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina discussed various new areas of collaboration, and new bilateral instruments on urban governance and infrastructure -- with a €184 million agreement in this regard -- and satellite systems were signed between Dhaka and Paris.
President Macron, who arrived in Dhaka on Sunday, commended Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's dedication towards fair governance and basic human rights, and also pledged to aid Bangladesh on a variety of fronts like establishing sustainable development schemes, battling climate change, and cooperation in strategic assets and advanced technology.
These are undeniably positive developments, and will assist greatly in supporting Bangladesh's progress as a soon-to-be developing nation.
Bangladesh and France have cultivated an impressive partnership over the years. With France currently standing as our fifth largest export destination, and trade between the countries rising to a staggering €4.9 billion, it is in the best interest of both nations to bolster relations further in such mutually beneficial ways.
Our country has long been focused on its highly ambitious development goals, and while we've made significant progress over the past decade, support from a nation like France -- especially under the current state of global political unrest -- can certainly help us on the way.
To that end, it is imperative that we continue to foster deepened bilateral ties with other nations strategically.
