Photo: Embassy of France

DHAKA, May 29, 2025 (BSS) – France is working to formulate a renewed strategic roadmap to deepen and diversify its cooperation with Bangladesh in the coming years, reaffirming its commitment to the region under its Indo-Pacific Strategy.

The French Embassy in Dhaka recently hosted the Strategic Orientation Council, a consultation platform designed to assess the progress of bilateral cooperation and explore new avenues for collaboration.

 “The Embassy of France in Dhaka recently hosted the Strategic Orientation Council, a key moment to reflect on the progress of French cooperation in Bangladesh and chart a future roadmap together,” the embassy said in a statement shared on its official Facebook page.

The session brought together senior French officials and prominent Bangladeshi experts from various fields to share perspectives on shared priorities, opportunities, and expectations for future engagement.

Jacques Bounin, head of Bangladesh affairs at the General Directorate for Globalisation, Culture, Education and International Development under the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, attended the event and shared his reflections on strategic cooperation moving forward.

French Ambassador to Bangladesh Marie Masdupuy delivered the opening remarks, underlining the importance of sustainable, people-centred development and the evolving priorities of French foreign policy in the region.

“Organising a Strategic Council is a valuable opportunity to take stock of the actions undertaken so far, reflect on future prospects and their sustainability, and consider how to overcome potential challenges,”? the embassy noted.

France considers the Asia-Pacific a strategic priority, being the first EU country to adopt a dedicated Indo-Pacific Strategy in 2018. 

Officials said the Dhaka dialogue reflects France’s intent to strengthen regional cooperation and elevate its engagement with Bangladesh across sectors, including climate action, education, cultural exchange, and infrastructure.