French envoy seeks level playing field for European companies including Airbus

Dhaka: The French Ambassador to Bangladesh, Jean-Marc Séré-Charlet, has called for a fair and level playing field for European companies, including Airbus, to expand their engagement in Bangladesh’s aviation sector.

The issue was raised during a courtesy call on Afroza Khanam Rita at the Secretariat, where M. Rashiduzzaman Millat was also present.

During the meeting, the Ambassador highlighted the strong and growing bilateral ties between France and Bangladesh, particularly in the civil aviation sector. He emphasized the need for a competitive and transparent environment to encourage greater participation of European firms in Bangladesh’s rapidly expanding aviation market, read a press release from the embassy in Dhaka. 

Referring to existing cooperation, the Ambassador pointed to the successful collaboration between Thales Group and the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh, especially in modernizing operations at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport. He noted the smooth operational transition of the nationwide Air Traffic Management System as a testament to this partnership.

Highlighting future opportunities, the Ambassador stressed Airbus’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s aviation development. He said collaboration with Airbus could significantly enhance the country’s fleet capacity and contribute to building a more robust aviation ecosystem.

He also noted Bangladesh’s strategic geographic position between South Asia and Southeast Asia, which offers strong potential for the country to emerge as a regional aviation hub. Strengthened cooperation with European partners, he added, would play a crucial role in achieving this vision.

The French envoy further expressed optimism about deepening engagement with Bangladesh’s new government, particularly in trade, investment, and aviation, signaling France’s intent to build a long-term partnership in the sector.

K