Bangladesh and France share vision for free, open and secure Indo-Pacific region based on international law- Joint Statement

• Integrity Education, Delhi
• 10, Nov 2021

Bangladesh and France share the same vision for a free, open, peaceful, secure and inclusive Indo-Pacific region based on international law, said the joint statement issued on Tuesday after the meeting between Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the French President Emanuel Macron in Paris.

Taking note of the French and European strategies concerning the Indo-Pacific, both countries agreed to work towards regional peace and stability and to explore further opportunities for cooperation in maritime security and blue economy. The joint statement highlighted the importance of maintaining security and freedom of navigation and overflight in all seas and oceans.

Bangladesh and France also decided to step up the security component of their partnership especially in the area of training. They also expressed commitment to step up cooperation in the area of defence equipment and potential technology transfer.

On the issue of connectivity in South Asia, the joint statement welcomed the work of the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) on connectivity and the European approach to global connectivity. Both the countries agreed to increase their cooperation to strengthen connectivity in South Asia.

Taking note of the priorities expressed by Bangladesh to develop the aeronautic and aerospace sectors, both countries agreed for closer cooperation in this sector.

On the Rohingya issue, France acknowledged the generosity of Bangladesh in sheltering the Rohingya refugees. Both countries expressed the need to enable the voluntary, safe, dignified and sustainable return of Rohingyas to Myanmar.

Sources : News On Air