During French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to Dhaka, Bangladesh, the two nations made strides towards strengthening their bilateral ties. A key highlight of the visit was Bangladesh’s commitment to purchase ten new A350 airplanes from Airbus. It is a critical step in the growing strategic partnership between the two countries.
Airbus Deal and Space Partnership
Macron revealed Bangladesh’s plan to acquire ten Airbus A350 aircraft. This commitment reflects Bangladesh’s trust in the European aerospace industry. The deal, still in the finalization phase, is expected to involve the national flag carrier, Biman Bangladesh Airlines.
In addition to the aircraft deal, Bangladesh and France signed a letter of intent for a space partnership between Airbus and Bangladesh Satellite Company Ltd. The agreement includes provisions for acquiring the Bangabandhu-2 Earth Observation Satellite System. It’s worth noting that Bangladesh’s first satellite, Bangabandhu-1, was also manufactured by a French company. Furthermore, Bangladesh signed a credit facility agreement with Agence Française de Développement, wherein France will provide €184 million to support urban governance and infrastructural development in Bangladesh.
France’s Indo-Pacific Strategy: Strengthening Ties with Bangladesh
Macron’s visit to Bangladesh holds significant implications within the context of France’s Indo-Pacific Strategy. This visit comes after Macron’s recent visit to Sri Lanka and some Pacific countries and serves as a key step in consolidating France’s commitment to the Indo-Pacific region. France is positioning itself as an alternative to the growing competition between the United States and China, offering a third way based on democratic principles and the rule of law. Macron’s outreach to South Asia demonstrates France’s intention to play a vital role in shaping the geopolitical landscape of the Indo-Pacific.
Expanding Bangladesh’s Aircraft Fleet
Biman Bangladesh Airlines, the country’s national carrier, currently operates a fleet comprising Boeing 737-800s, 777-300ERs, 787-8s, 787-9s, and short-haul De Havilland Canada Dash-8 400s. The initial order for Airbus A350 planes will include two aircraft, with the possibility of additional planes in the future. This move diversifies Bangladesh’s aircraft fleet, providing options from both Airbus and Boeing.
A Bilateral Vision for the Future
President Macron’s visit underscored the significance of the partnership between Bangladesh and France. Both nations expressed their commitment to establishing regional and global stability and peace through this strategic alliance. They also condemned unconstitutional changes of government and unlawful military takeovers in any country, advocating for urgent humanitarian assistance for those affected by conflicts and violence.
Moreover, Bangladesh and France emphasized their shared principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the rule of law. Both nations reaffirmed their dedication to international law, the UN Charter, and the peaceful resolution of conflicts, reflecting their belief in multilateralism.
Climate Emergency and Food Security
Addressing climate change, Bangladesh and France recognized the importance of international cooperation in tackling the climate emergency. They emphasized the need for inclusive governance of global financing architecture and the acceleration of global efforts to provide climate finance to developing countries.
Both nations pledged to work together to achieve a result-oriented COP28 in Dubai. They emphasize renewable and clean energy investments, global energy transition, and carbon neutrality by 2050. Additionally, they recognized the adverse impact of climate change and supply chain disruptions on food sovereignty, food security, and nutrition worldwide. They also committed to cooperation in sustainable and resilient food and agriculture systems.
Summary of Macron’s Dhaka Visit
President Macron’s visit to Dhaka marks a significant milestone in the evolving partnership between Bangladesh and France. This newfound strategic alliance encompasses aerospace, space exploration, urban development, climate action, and more.
