France keen to expand investment in Bangladesh

France has expressed strong interest in expanding its investments in Bangladesh, identifying the country as a promising economic destination in South Asia.

The interest was conveyed on Thursday by the French Ambassador to Bangladesh Jean-Marc Séré-Charlet during a meeting with Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir at the Secretariat in the capital, said a press release.

During the meeting, the ambassador said Bangladesh’s ongoing industrialisation, infrastructure development, and large consumer market have made the country an attractive destination for international investors.

The two sides discussed issues relating to the creation of a business-friendly environment, expansion of investment opportunities, infrastructure development, and strengthening long-term strategic partnerships.

Ambassador Séré-Charlet welcomed the government’s initiatives aimed at making business operations more efficient and streamlined.

Muktadir said the government is implementing a series of reforms to maintain a competitive and investment-friendly economic environment.

He noted that special emphasis is being placed on improving the ease of doing business through reducing administrative complexities, digitalising approval processes, and ensuring faster services for investors.

The meeting was also attended by Md Abdur Rahim Khan, secretary (routine duty) of the Ministry of Commerce.