French envoy urges Dhaka to take Airbus proposal ‘seriously’

French Ambassador Jean-Marc Séré-Charlet has expressed hope that the newly elected BNP government will “seriously consider” purchasing Airbus aircraft, despite recent leanings towards American rival Boeing.

Following a courtesy meeting with State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam on Monday, the envoy emphasised that while he discussed long-term bilateral issues, the aviation deal remains a critical field of cooperation.

The push for Airbus comes amid a shifting geopolitical landscape.

When asked whether defence cooperation and the Airbus purchase had been discussed, the ambassador said the talks had not focused on any single issue but confirmed that the aircraft proposal remained important for France.

“For us, Airbus is an important issue,” he said, adding that the company manufactures high-quality aircraft and should be taken seriously as Bangladesh considers future aviation procurement.

The envoy said Airbus was continuing its discussions with the government and with Biman Bangladesh Airlines regarding the proposal.

“We hope Airbus will be considered by the government and by Biman,” he said.

Asked whether bilateral relations could be affected if Bangladesh ultimately decides not to purchase Airbus aircraft, Char-let said discussions were still ongoing.

“Airbus is still discussing the issue with the government. We are still in discussions and we hope Airbus will be taken seriously,” he said.

Responding to another question on whether the new government should review earlier decisions related to aircraft procurement, including a possible purchase from Boeing, the envoy said the matter rested entirely with the Bangladeshi authorities.

“It is up to the government. Now it depends on Biman. This is a new government and we leave the decision to them,” he said.

The ambassador also emphasised the longstanding ties between the two countries, noting that France was among the earliest nations to recognise Bangladesh after its independence.

“France is a long-standing partner. It was one of the first countries to recognise Bangladesh,” he said.