France has expressed a strong interest in expanding its investment footprint in Bangladesh, identifying the nation as a premier economic destination within South Asia.

This commitment was conveyed on Thursday by the French Ambassador to Bangladesh, Jean-Marc Sere-Charlet, during a high-level meeting with Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir at the Secretariat in Dhaka.

According to an official press release, Ambassador Sere-Charlet highlighted that Bangladesh’s consistent industrialization, robust infrastructure development, and substantial consumer market have positioned the country as an increasingly attractive hub for international investors.

The discussions between the two officials focused on several key areas, including the creation of a more business-friendly environment, the expansion of existing investment opportunities, further infrastructure development and the strengthening of a long-term strategic partnership between the two nations.

Ambassador Sere-Charlet also expressed his appreciation for the government’s ongoing initiatives designed to streamline business operations and improve efficiency.

In response, Commerce Minister Muktadir detailed a series of reforms currently being implemented to ensure a competitive and investment-friendly economic landscape.

The Minister emphasized that the government is placing a special focus on enhancing the "ease of doing business."

These efforts include reducing administrative complexities, digitalizing approval processes, and ensuring the delivery of faster, more transparent services for global investors.

The meeting was also attended by Md. Abdur Rahim Khan, Secretary (Routine Duty) of the Ministry of Commerce.