News PM's visit to France to be multi-dimensional

[F-6 enthusiast]

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina left Dhaka on Sunday morning for the United Kingdom and France on a two-week visit to attend the 26th UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26) and other events.

A VVIP flight of Biman Bangladesh Airlines, carrying the Prime Minister and her entourage, departed Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 9.27am.

The flight is scheduled to land at Glasgow International Airport in Scotland at 2:45pm (local time). Bangladeshi High Commissioner to the UK Saida Muna Tasneem will receive the Prime Minister.

During the visit, Hasina will also attend the Bangladesh Investment Summit and hand over ‘Unesco-Bangladesh Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman International Prize for the Creative Economy’.

Besides, she will hold bilateral meetings with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and French President Emmanuel Macron apart from other heads of state and government.

The Prime Minister will also hold a meeting with UK's Prince Charles during her visit.

On November 1, Hasina will address the key segment of the COP26 apart from joining the opening ceremony.

The same day, the Prime Minister will attend a joint meeting of the Climate Vulnerable Forum (CVF)-Commonwealth High Level Panel Discussion on Climate Prosperity Partnership and then another meeting titled “Action and Solidarity-the critical decade” at the invitation of her British counterpart Boris Johnson.

She will have a meeting with Commonwealth secretary general Particia Scotland, Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and Bill Gates.

Hasina will attend a civic reception virtually arranged by the Bangladeshi Community living in Scotland.

On November 2, the Prime Minister will attend meetings titled “Women and Climate Change” and “Forging a CVF COP 26 Climate Emergency Pact”.

She will hold a bilateral meeting with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, and meetings with UK’s Prince Charles, First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, speaker of Scottish Parliament Alison Johnstone.

Later, she will address “A Bangladesh Vision for Global Climate Prosperity”.

On November 3, she will leave Scotland for London by a Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight.

On the same day, she will go to Westminster where Rushanara Ali MP and Lord Gadhia will welcome her. She will have a courtesy call with British Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle.

On November 4, the Prime Minister will inaugurate the “Bangladesh Investment Summit 2021: Building Sustainable Growth Partnerships”.

She will unveil the cover of two publications titled ‘Secret Documents’ (Vol i-ix) and ‘Mujib & Introduction’ and inaugurate an art exhibition titled “Bangabandhu and Britain: A Centenary Collection”.

On November 7, she will inaugurate the newly-expanded portion of Bangladesh High Commission and Bangabandhu Lounge there.

She will also attend a civic reception to be accorded to her by Bangladeshi expatriates living in the UK.

On November 9, she will leave London for Paris in the morning by a VVIP flight of Biman.

She will have a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron at Elysee Palace and witness the signing of three deeds, and attend a joint press conference before joining lunch to be hosted by the French President. She will be given guard of honour there.

The Prime Minister will also have a bilateral meeting with French Prime Minister Jean Castex.

On November 10, Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury and Dassault Aviation president Eric Trappier and Thales president Patrice Caine will meet her at her place.

She will have a meeting with a delegation of French business organisation MEDEF. French Minister Florence Parly will also meet her.

Later in the afternoon, she will visit the French Senate where she will receive official reception during the ongoing Senate Session.

On November 11, Sheikh Hasina will attend the Paris Peace Forum.

Later, she will go to attend the “Unesco-Bangladesh Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman International Prize for the Creative Economy” awarding ceremony at the Unesco Headquarters.

From there she will go to Elysee Palace to attend the dinner to be hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron in honour of her.

On November 12, Sheikh Hasina will go to the Paris Peace Forum and attend a high-level panel discussion on South-South and Triangular Cooperation.

Later, she will go to the Unesco Headquarters to attend the inaugural session of the 75th Founding anniversary of Unesco where she will deliver her speech.

She will participate in the dinner to be hosted by Unesco Director General Audrey Azoulay in honour of heads of government and state.

On November 13, Sheikh Hasina will attend a civic reception to be accorded to her by the expatriate Bangladeshis living there.

In the afternoon, she will depart De Gaulle International Airport by a VVIP flight of Biman and land at Hazrat Shahjalal Airport at 10 am (local time) on November 14.

PM Sheikh Hasina off to Europe to join COP26 summit

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina left Dhaka on Sunday morning for the United Kingdom and France on a two-week visit to attend the 26th UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26) and other events. A VVIP flight of Biman Bangladesh Airlines, carrying the Prime Minister and her entourage...

www.theindependentbd.com

https://www.banglatribune.com/710291/প্রধানমন্ত্রীর-ফ্রান্স-সফর-হবে-বহুমাত্রিক

thoughts @Isa Khan ? article talks about Rafale.

 

[Isa Khan]

thoughts @Isa Khan ? article talks about Rafale.

I have edited your article. Rafale's offer is nothing new. She is also meeting with the Airbus CEO. So it's too early to tell. Lets be patient and wait for official announcement.

 

[Isa Khan]

France has expressed its intent to sign a number of deals with Bangladesh eyeing to extend cooperation in defence with the potential for selling weapons among other issues during the visit of prime minister Sheikh Hasina to the country next week.

The two countries ‘are working to sign a deal for setting a framework on defence cooperation including providing defence articles’ by France after a summit between the top leaders in Paris in November, according to French diplomats.

France is also interested in installing radars at airports in cities other than Dhaka and providing e-visa facilities for granting visas to the foreigners willing to visit Bangladesh.

Bangladesh officials confirmed the matter.

Without specific mention of anything, foreign minister AK Abdul Momen said on Saturday that Bangladesh and France will sign several memorandums of understanding and letter of intent on different issues after Hasina’s talks with French president Emmanuel Macron and prime minister Jean Castex in Paris separately on November 9.

French defence minister Florence Parly will call on prime minister Sheikh Hasina, who holds the defence portfolio.

Florence Parly expressed the intent to sell defence articles to Bangladesh during her visit in March 2020.

Rafale, a twin-jet fighter aircraft, and unmanned combat air vehicles, among other military hardware, were included in the French proposal.

Bangladesh and France are working on details of the signing of the instruments, state minister for foreign affairs M Shahriar Alam said when asked about the issues of the deals scheduled to be signed.

France is the third among the five largest arms exporting countries after the United States and Russia in 2016-2020 with Germany, China and the United Kingdom holding the fourth, fifth and sixth position respectively, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute fact sheet of March 2021.

France is also a major source of arms for India, one of the two immediate neighbours of Bangladesh including Myanmar.

China is still a major source of arms for Bangladesh, according to Stockholm International Peace Research Institute.

Bangladesh is now set to diversify arms procurements from various countries.

Prime minister Sheikh Hasina left home on Sunday for two weeks to attend the 26th session of the UN climate conference, COP26 in shorthand, in the United Kingdom and a state visit to the UK and France.

The Bangladesh premier will address on Monday the COP26, set to begin in Glasgow in Scotland on Sunday.

Sheikh Hasina will reach Paris on November 9 from the UK and will spend five days as a state guest.

A number of countries that produce military equipment are keen to sell their products and services to Bangladesh and widen the defence cooperation with it.

The countries which have sought to install mechanisms or to make the existing instruments operational for providing military supplies to Bangladesh include the United Kingdom, the United States, France, Italy, Turkey, Belarus and India, among others.

Most of the countries want to export fighter aircraft, both manned and unmanned, short- and medium-range missiles, tanks, cannons and battleships, according to local and foreign diplomatic sources.

The five largest arms importers were Saudi Arabia, India, Egypt, Australia and China.

France keen to sell weapons to Bangladesh

France has expressed its intent to sign a number of deals with Bangladesh eyeing to extend cooperation in defence with the potential for selling weapons among other issues during the visit of prime minister Sheikh Hasina to the...

www.newagebd.net

 

[F-6 enthusiast]

The two countries ‘are working to sign a deal for setting a framework on defence cooperation including providing defence articles’ by France after a summit between the top leaders in Paris in November, according to French diplomats.

This article reiterating what was said above

"Diplomatic sources told Prothom Alo that the deal includes training, technical assistance and ToT. France will push for Rafale during PM's tour. They also want to sell trainer aircraft to BD. Airbus is interested to sell EFT to BD"

ব্যবসা ও প্রতিরক্ষা সহযোগিতায় গুরুত্ব

প্রধানমন্ত্রী শেখ হাসিনা আগামীকাল মঙ্গলবার প্যারিসের এলিসি প্রাসাদে ফ্রান্সের প্রেসিডেন্ট এমানুয়েল মাখোঁর সঙ্গে আনুষ্ঠানিক বৈঠকে বসছেন। বৈঠকে ব্যবসা, বিনিয়োগ ও প্রতিরক্ষা সহযোগিতার মতো বিষয়গুলো গুরুত্ব পেতে পারে।

www.prothomalo.com

 

[Isa Khan]

It looks like negotiation for MRCA is on the final stage. Expecting the announcement next year.

 

[F-6 enthusiast]

It looks like negotiation for MRCA is on the final stage. Expecting the announcement next year.

you think EFT has a chance ? we were so close to signing the deal.

 

[Isa Khan]

you think EFT has a chance ? we were so close to signing the deal.

"Were"? Nothing's final yet. To me it seems like the final pitch from British PM and French defense minister. All parties involved are done offering EFT and Rafale. Just because we will buy ships from UK, doesn't dictate that we can't buy MRCA from them.

 

[F-6 enthusiast]

"Were"? Nothing's final yet. To me it seems like the final pitch from British PM and French defense minister. All parties involved are done offering EFT and Rafale. Just because we will buy ships from UK, doesn't dictate that we can't buy MRCA from them.

i hope you are right.

 

[Isa Khan]

This article reiterating what was said above

"Diplomatic sources told Prothom Alo that the deal includes training, technical assistance and ToT. France will push for Rafale during PM's tour. They also want to sell trainer aircraft to BD. Airbus is interested to sell EFT to BD"

ব্যবসা ও প্রতিরক্ষা সহযোগিতায় গুরুত্ব

প্রধানমন্ত্রী শেখ হাসিনা আগামীকাল মঙ্গলবার প্যারিসের এলিসি প্রাসাদে ফ্রান্সের প্রেসিডেন্ট এমানুয়েল মাখোঁর সঙ্গে আনুষ্ঠানিক বৈঠকে বসছেন। বৈঠকে ব্যবসা, বিনিয়োগ ও প্রতিরক্ষা সহযোগিতার মতো বিষয়গুলো গুরুত্ব পেতে পারে।

www.prothomalo.com

Basically what Prothom Alo reported. Except the first and last part.

https://www.facebook.com/DefsecaBD/posts/440559284170247

 

[Isa Khan]

https://www.facebook.com/bangladootparis/posts/2142831572534406

PARIS, Nov 9 (Reuters) - French President Emmanuel Macron discussed geopolitical and security issues in the Indo-Pacific region, where France's clout has been compromised after losing out on an Australia submarine contract, with Bangladesh's Prime Minister.

"France and Bangladesh shared the same vision for a free, open, peaceful, secure and inclusive Indo-Pacific region, based on international law and with shared prosperity for all," said a statement on Tuesday from Macron's office.

In September, Australia cancelled a deal with France's Naval Group, opting instead to build at least 12 nuclear-powered submarines in a deal with the United States and Britain.

French President Macron discussed Indo-Pacific security at meeting with Bangladesh PM

French President Emmanuel Macron discussed geopolitical and security issues in the Indo-Pacific region, where France's clout has been compromised after losing out on an Australia submarine contract, with Bangladesh's Prime Minister.

www.reuters.com

 

[Hasan]

But, would it be nice to have the same MRCA what Indians use too? EFT would've been a better option for us, IMO.
On top, the UK is more reliable than France, especially after the AUKUS because we all have seen what France did to Australia by lingering the process for these cancelled Aussie subs - took long vacations, didn't complete deadlines etc. And even with Indian deal for the Rafaels, they did bribe related scandals. Why should we go to France as they have such bad reputation?
Brits along with Japasese and Swedes are making Tempest which is ahead of the French led FCAS and perhaps, in far future, we can have a hand over that too if we can maintain a good relationship with the UK. Just sharing my thoughts.

 

[Isa Khan]

Bangladesh-France Joint Declaration​

9 November 2021:

1. At the invitation of the President of the French Republic, Emmanuel Macron, the Prime Minister of Bangladesh, H.E. Ms Sheikh Hasina is making an official visit to France from 9 November 2021. The high-level discussions covered, among other issues, upgrading of bilateral relations, the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations which both countries will celebrate next year and major international and regional issues. Both sides recalled the historic leadership of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and Bangladesh acknowledged the valuable support of the government and people of the Republic of France during the War of Liberation in 1971.

2. Bangladesh and France welcomed the growth of their friendship, and highlighted their shared will to develop and deepen all aspects of their partnership through regular political consultations for strategic guidance. Both countries reiterated their determination to enhance cooperation in all areas, including politics and diplomacy, defence and security, trade and investment, sustainable development and climate change, and education and cultural exchange. Both countries also recognized the importance of sustained and substantive cooperation in relevant regional and multilateral fora.

3. Bangladesh and France stated their will to further develop the defence and security component of their partnership. To that end, both countries agreed to strengthen dialogue and continue their cooperation, in particular the area of training, which was launched during this visit. Furthermore, they committed to stepping up cooperation in the area of defence equipment based on the needs expressed and each party’s ability to respond to them, including through capacity building and potential technology transfer. In this regard, both parties welcomed the signing a Letter of intent on defence cooperation.

4. Bangladesh and France shared the same vision for a free, open, peaceful, secure and inclusive Indo-Pacific region, based on international law and with shared prosperity for all. Taking note of the French and European strategies concerning the Indo-Pacific, both parties agreed to work towards promoting regional peace and stability and to explore further opportunities for cooperation in maritime security and blue economy. Highlighting their commitment to fully observing the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea as well as the peaceful settlement of disputes, refraining from any threat or use of force, they stated the importance of maintaining security and freedom of navigation and overflight in all seas and oceans.

5. Bangladesh and France once again reaffirmed that terrorism, in all its forms and manifestations, is one of the most serious threats to global peace and security and that all terrorist acts are criminal and unjustifiable. Both countries, therefore, jointly express their support for counter-terrorism efforts and agreed to enhance their cooperation, including under the aegis of the United Nations.

6. Furthermore, Bangladesh and France would like to increase their cooperation and dialogue with a view to actively contributing to strengthening connectivity in South Asia in order to facilitate exchanges between Europe and Asia and promote sustainable and inclusive economic growth. Welcoming the work of the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) on connectivity as well as the European approach to global connectivity, both countries stressed the importance of continuing economic projects based on the principles of fair competition, transparency, economic, financial, environmental and social sustainability and mutual benefit, taking into account the principles, objectives and targets of the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda and relevant G20 documents.

7. France complimented Bangladesh on being recommended by the United Nations to graduate from the Least Developed Country category in 2026. Acknowledging Bangladesh's submission of the National Plan of Action on the Labour Sector to the European Union, France stressed the need for its comprehensive implementation and encouraged Bangladesh to pursue its export-led growth and economic diversification, including by leveraging the appropriate trade preferences under the European Union’s GSP Regulations. Furthermore, both countries
underlined their commitment to liberalizing and facilitating trade and investment and their commitment to the role of the World Trade Organization. They expressed their wish to strengthen their cooperation in order to improve the global governance mechanism and stimulate sustainable economic recovery and growth from the COVID-19 pandemic.

8. Both countries expressed their determination to strengthen economic, trade and investment cooperation and to continue their shared efforts to improve market access for their respective companies. They reaffirmed their desire to strengthen long-term economic and industrial partnerships, including in the sectors of agriculture, infrastructure, transport, energy and digital technology. Taking into account the priorities expressed by Bangladesh to develop the aeronautic and aerospace sectors, both counties expressed their support to a closer cooperation and new opportunities in these sectors. France took note of Bangladesh’s pursuit of a knowledge-based economy and both sides agreed to explore enhanced cooperation in science, technology and innovation.

9. Bangladesh and France reiterated the central role of the United Nations in international peace and security, and highlighted the importance of promoting and protecting human rights and fundamental freedoms in accordance with the goals and principles of the Charter of the United Nations. Bangladesh, which is one of the main contributors to United Nations peacekeeping operations, and France, which also contributes to PKOs, agreed to maintain their cooperation in this area, including in specific francophone contexts. Both countries recalled their commitment to the objectives and principles pursued by all United Nations agencies, including UNESCO, a forum in which both countries actively cooperate.

10. France welcomed Bangladesh’s generosity in providing shelter to the Rohingyas, who were forced to flee violence of Myanmar security forces in their home country. Bangladesh and France noted the significant pressure caused by the Rohingya crisis on Bangladesh, particularly for communities living adjacent to the camps. Both countries underscored the need to ensure funding for the UN’s Joint Response Plan for the Rohingya in Bangladesh and enable their voluntary, safe, dignified and sustainable return to Myanmar as soon as possible. In this regard, Bangladesh highlighted the potential security risks from the crisis for the region, and urged the international community to play a constructive role to resolve the crisis.

11. Both countries welcomed the French Development Agency (AFD)’s long-term partnership with Bangladesh. Through the activities of the AFD and in response to Bangladesh’s national development strategies, France is committed to continuing support for Bangladesh’s health system as well as for the blue economy, energy and water sectors. Both sides welcomed the signing of the Credit Facility Agreements on health systems strengthening and water treatment plant.

12. Following COP26 in Glasgow, Bangladesh and France reaffirmed their shared determination to strengthen cooperation for the environment, the fight against climate change and the promotion of sustainable growth, as part of the overall 2030 Agenda. France commended Bangladesh’s leadership of the Climate Vulnerable Forum and both sides agreed to work towards securing climate financing committed under the Paris Climate Agreement.

13. Bangladesh and France agreed to facilitate scientific and academic research through collaboration and exchange at the institutional level. France further agreed to offer specialized courses for diplomatic and military professionals of Bangladesh in relevant French institutions. Both countries also stated their desire to promote the use of the French language in Bangladesh and the Bangla language in France, and would like to support the role of the Alliances Françaises in Dhaka and Chittagong.

14. Both parties are convinced that this visit will turn a new chapter in further strengthening the bilateral partnership between Bangladesh and France.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs

9 November 2021: 1. At the invitation of the President of the French Republic, Emmanuel Macron, the Prime Minister of Bangladesh, H.E. Ms Sheikh Hasina is making an official visit to France from 9 November 2021. The high-level discussions covered, among other issues, upgrading of bilateral relatio

mofa.gov.bd

 

[Isa Khan]

https://www.facebook.com/DefsecaBD/posts/441808900711952

On November 10, Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury and Dassault Aviation president Eric Trappier and Thales president Patrice Caine will meet her at her place.

https://www.facebook.com/opsroombd/posts/2913726658879696

 

[F-6 enthusiast]

https://www.facebook.com/opsroombd/photos/a.2195291837389852/2913461095572919

1 thing that could be an issue is the pricing of the MBDA weaponry.
Unlike the EFT , Rafale isn't fully NATO integrated. That means no AMRAAM, AGM-65 , AGM-88 , guided munitions etc. which are probably cheaper than MBDA equivalents. This creates the opportunity for price gouging , similar to what the Russians did (knowing well that we didn't have alternatives).

 

[Isa Khan]

Laying emphasis on doubling bilateral trade volume by 2025, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today invited French businessmen to boost their investors in Bangladesh as the country sits at a strategic location among major economic centers in the Indo-Pacific.

"French investment in Bangladesh is still modest compared to its global footprint. I invite French investors to witness first-hand the investment opportunities in Bangladesh," she said.

The Prime Minister made this call during her meeting with the Business Leaders of MEDEF International at the Place of Residence here in France.

Mentioning that Bangladesh sits at a strategic location in the Indo-Pacific to act as a bridge among major economic centers, Sheikh Hasina said "We are working on making Bangladesh a regional connectivity hub.

Our investments in road, rail, maritime, energy and digital connectivity across the region will be a real game-changer."

She said Bangladesh's Investment Promotion Agency- BIDA is directly reporting to her office and it will be happy to support French investors in any way possible.

She advised "You may wish to find a local partner to make your entry easier, and you would be well advised to build a partnership with Bangladesh in the long term."

"Bilateral trade between Bangladesh and France is growing steadily. The two-way trade stands close to 2 billion US dollars", she added.

Mentioning that France is now Bangladesh's 5th largest export destination, the Premier said "We must aim to double the volume of bilateral trade by 2025. Our export to France also needs to diversify further."

Sheikh Hasina said that she is sure that French investors will feel confident about the prospects for high returns on their investment.

"We would also welcome your constant feedback and suggestions," she said, adding, "Bangladesh stands ready to welcome you to make your business venture grow for our mutual benefit."

She thanked MEDEF for setting up a Bangladesh-France Business Council.

"We would encourage further bilateral engagements through institutional linkages. The MEDEF business mission to Bangladesh can be planned in connection with next year's celebrations of the 50th anniversary of our diplomatic relations," she said.

Referring to her yesterday's talks with President Macron and also with the French Prime Minister, she said they have agreed to take the bilateral Relations to new heights.

"This should be reflected in our economic partnership as well. I look forward to your active cooperation in making that happen", she added.

The Prime Minister said in the last one decade, Bangladesh's economy has grown at an average rate of six percent with 8.52 percent growth in 2018-19.

Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, she said the economy posted a growth rate of 5.21 percent, the highest in the Asia-Pacific.

She continued “Our strategy to maintain a balance between people’s lives and livelihoods worked in our favour.”

She mentioned Bangladesh’s US$ 310 billion economy is now the world’s 41st largest in nominal GDP and the per capita income has been revised upwards to US$ 2,554.

She added “Our macro-economic fundamentals remain strong and continue to get positive sovereign credit ratings. Our securities markets are also gaining international confidence.”

Sheikh Hasina said Bangladesh’s notable progress in the social sector is a result of the government’s inclusive development policies.

She said “Our achievements in poverty alleviation, combating hunger, women’s empowerment, primary health care, free housing allocation, disaster management and social protection are now widely recognized.”

She said the aim of the government is bringing 80 percent of the target group population under COVID-19 vaccination by March next year. “I call for international solidarity to build back better, stronger and greener from the pandemic.”

She said the government is continuing to invest in productivity growth of the workers. “Our private sector is showing remarkable resilience. We have a fast-expanding middle-class consumer base. Our girls and women are making their mark in almost all spheres of society”, she added.

The Premier hoped to groom the next generation as true global citizens. She said “We have the world’s second highest number of IT freelancers now working in Bangladesh. Some of our start-ups are getting sizable international investments.”
Talking about the political situation in Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina said the overall political stability has created the right environment for its socio-economic growth. “Our territory is now relatively peaceful and secure compared to some of our neighbouring countries”, she added.

She also noted that the pandemic could not slow down Bangladesh’s massive investments in infrastructure projects.

She went on saying “We also offer one of the friendliest investment environments in the region. We remain open to sustained reforms in our legal and policy framework. Our legal regime offers sound protection to foreign investments. We are getting ready for the policy adjustments to be made following our LDC graduation.”

She added the government is setting up 100 Special Economic Zones and 28 HI-TECH Parks across the country.

Sheikh Hasina said “We now have excess power generation capacity. Our entire land territory has internet coverage. Bangladesh now ranks among the top rice, inland fisheries and vegetable producing countries. Our Blue Economy resources, however, largely remain untapped.”

Regarding the climate change issue, she said, “Our vulnerability to climate change is a reality. But we are now focused on building climate resilience and sustainability.”

She continued “This also creates green business opportunities for our partners. Our long-term development plans are aimed at building a peaceful, inclusive and prosperous delta.”

She said all these factors make Bangladesh an attractive trade and investment destination.

The Prime Minister repeated what she had said in Paris back in 2017, saying “France needs to invest to sustain its growth, and Bangladesh needs investment and trade to fast-track its growth. Together, we can create a win-win situation for our two economies.”

She said a number of French enterprises are engaged in useful work in Bangladesh. “We developed our Bangabandhu I Satellite with the technical support of a French company. Two ground control stations have also been set up. We have started planning for our second satellite,” she added.

She said Bangladesh’s air navigation systems are being supported by French technology and in addition French expertise is also being used in the energy sector, including for expanding one of our oil refineries.

“We appreciate continued French investment in our water development sector. Agro-processing can be yet another area for enhanced cooperation,” she added.

PM for doubling Dhaka-Paris bilateral trade, wooing French investors in Bangladesh

Laying emphasis on doubling bilateral trade volume by 2025, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today invited French businessmen to boost their investors in Bangladesh as the country sits at a strategic location among major economic centers in the Indo-Pacific. "French investment in Bangladesh is still…

m.theindependentbd.com

Bangladesh and France signed three agreements on financial assistance and technical cooperation on the second day of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's five-day state visit to this friendly European country on Wednesday.

As per two agreements, France will provide 330 million Euro to Bangladesh to support its development projects.

Of the 330 million euro, Agency France Development (AFD) will provide 200 million euro for budget support due to Covid-19 pandemic while 130 million euro for Dhaka Environmentally Sustainable Water Supply Project which is already going on, said Economic Relations Division (ERD) Secretary Fatima Yasmin while briefing media here on Wednesday.

She said, with this 330 million euro, the total support of AFD to Bangladesh exceeded 1 billion euro as earlier it provided 800 million euro.

In South Asia, Bangladesh is the largest support receiver of AFD, she added.

The ERD secretary said they will sign host country agreement with France in coming days as discussion to this end is in the final stage.

Besides, Civil Aviation and Tourism Secretary Md Mokammel Hossain said Bangladesh Civil Aviation Authority has signed an agreement with France Civil Aviation Authority to strengthen the cooperation in knowledge sharing and training of employees.

In addition, he said, it would also help organize different events including aviation safety which is a mentionable progress in the field of civil aviation of Bangladesh.

Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen, Prime Minister’s Press Secretary Ihsanul Karim and Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen, among others, were present.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina arrived here in France on November 9 on a state visit at the invitation of French President Emmanuel Macron. She is leading a high level delegation.

Bangladesh, France sign three agreements

France will provide 330 million Euro to Bangladesh to support its development projects

www.dhakatribune.com

The Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry has signed a memorandum of understanding with MEDEF International to boost bilateral trade and investment.

The MoU was signed at France-Bangladesh Business Council Meeting organised by MEDEF International and Embassy of Bangladesh on Wednesday at Paris in France.

Md Jashim Uddin, president of FBCCI and Pierre - Jean Malgouyres, chairman of the France - Bangladesh Business Council, MEDEF International, inked the deal on behalf of their respective organizations, said a press release.

Prime minister Sheikh Hasina addressed the event virtually as the chief guest.

AK Abdul Momen, foreign minister, Salman F Rahman, private industry and investment advisor to the prime minister of Bangladesh, Khondker M Talha ambassador of Bangladesh to France were also present in the meeting.

Addressing the meeting, FBCCI president Md Jashim Uddin stated that Bangladesh attaches great importance to its existing cordial relations with France. The two countries have a long-lasting bilateral relationship.

He also mentioned that France is the fifth largest export destination of Bangladesh with rising trend with major export products like woven garments, knitwear, home textile and footwear.

‘But, there is the full potential of export items like plastic and light engineering products, frozen food, diversified jute and leather goods, ceramic etc. to France from Bangladesh,’ he noted.

The FBCCI President said that the year of 2021 is a grand milestone as Bangladesh is celebrating three important occasions: The birth centenary of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, nation’s 50 years of independence and as per prime minister’s dream all criteria set by UN has been fulfilled to graduate a developing country.

Jashim said Bangladesh offers best competitive fiscal and non-fiscal incentives for investment. Manufacturers of Bangladesh are adopting greener technologies and modern productions methods aligned with 4IR and challenges of climate change. Among the world’s top 10 green RMG factories, the top 7 are located in Bangladesh.

‘To ensure inclusive growth, Bangladesh requires huge foreign Direct Investment. Industrial enterprises of France particularly those, which are facing rising costs of their competitiveness, may find Bangladesh as an ideal destination for relocation of their industry in Bangladesh,’ he added.

He hoped that the signing of MoU, would help further promoting cooperation between FBCCI and MEDEF for diversifying trade and expanding investment in an effective manner.

Mostofa Azad Chowdhury Babu, senior vice-president, FBCCI, MA Momen, Md Aminul Haque Shamim, Md Amin Helaly, vice-presidents of FBCCI, Md Rejaul Kariem Rejnu, CIP, Tosaddek Hossain Khan Tito, Priti Chakraborty, Shomi Kaiser, Syed Sadat Almas Kabir, Nadia Binte Amin, Md Saiful Islam, Khan Ahmed Shuvo, Ferdousi Begum, directors of FBCCI, Md Helal Uddin, former vice-president, FBCCI, Prabir Kumar Saha, Khondaker Mashiuzzaman (Romel), Mohd Mohabbat Ullah, former directors of FBCCI, Nihad Kabir, president, MCCI Dhaka, Jesmin Akhter and Saiful Alam, director, Bengal Group of Industries, Sajeda Zaman, Director, Peoples Energy Ltd. also joined the meeting, among others.

FBCCI, MEDEF Int’l signs MoU to boost Bangladesh-France ties

The Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry has signed a memorandum of understanding with MEDEF International to boost bilateral trade and investment...

www.newagebd.net

Bangladesh and France stated their will to further develop the defence and security component of their partnership. To that end, both countries agreed to strengthen dialogue and continue their cooperation, in particular the area of training, which was launched during this visit. Furthermore, they committed to stepping up cooperation in the area of defence equipment based on the needs expressed and each party’s ability to respond to them, including through capacity building and potential technology transfer. In this regard, both parties welcomed the signing a Letter of intent on defence cooperation.

But, would it be nice to have the same MRCA what Indians use too? EFT would've been a better option for us, IMO.
On top, the UK is more reliable than France, especially after the AUKUS because we all have seen what France did to Australia by lingering the process for these cancelled Aussie subs - took long vacations, didn't complete deadlines etc. And even with Indian deal for the Rafaels, they did bribe related scandals. Why should we go to France as they have such bad reputation?
Brits along with Japasese and Swedes are making Tempest which is ahead of the French led FCAS and perhaps, in far future, we can have a hand over that too if we can maintain a good relationship with the UK. Just sharing my thoughts.

1 thing that could be an issue is the pricing of the MBDA weaponry.
Unlike the EFT , Rafale isn't fully NATO integrated. That means no AMRAAM, AGM-65 , AGM-88 , guided munitions etc. which are probably cheaper than MBDA equivalents. This creates the opportunity for price gouging , similar to what the Russians did (knowing well that we didn't have alternatives).

There's no guarantee that we will get/buy AMRAAM, AGM-65 , AGM-88 cause all are American. Rafale is more expensive than EFT and India will certainly know about this fighter jet completely. The two Eurocopters army bought from France were expensive and we had trouble maintaining them because of expensive spares. What we need currently for air defense is an air superiority platform and EFT is optimized for it.

Only benefit of buying Rafale is we will deal with only one nation and MICA can be little substitute of Meteor. Looks like BD is more focused on ToT like former air chief said.

 

[F-6 enthusiast]

MICA can be little substitute of Meteor

Bro that thing has horrible range <50km in ''optimum conditions'' when compared to AMRAAM or even R-27ER1 or R-77-1. It will be waste of money.

Only benefit of buying Rafale is we will deal with only one nation

Maybe we can get SCALP like Egypt but i highly doubt it.

Looks like BD is more focused on ToT like former air chief said.

ToT could just mean MRO and spare parts producing capability.

What we need currently for air defense is an air superiority platform and EFT is optimized for it.

Agreed if we are going to field 16 jets (lets be realistic) , might as well have the best.

 

[Isa Khan]

Airbus offered civilian transport aircraft while Bangladesh wanted cargo plane. It agreed to transfer aeronautical technology. Dassault was offered but BD proposed to use Dassault Aviation's tech in Aviation & Aerospace University's research. Thales is interested in building the second satellite and E-visa.

https://twitter.com/i/web/status/1458504447672430597

Bro that thing has horrible range <50km in ''optimum conditions'' when compared to AMRAAM or even R-27ER1 or R-77-1.

80km and that's why i said "little".

ToT could just mean MRO and spare parts producing capability.

And we don't have THAT yet for an Western MRCA. If we don't have to send those fighter to other country for overhaul then that would suffice for now until we become more capable in aerospace sector.