French Ambassador to Bangladesh Jean-Marc Séré-Charlet met with Minister for Women and Children Affairs and Social Welfare Abu Zafar Md. Zahid Hossain at the ministry in Dhaka to discuss strengthening bilateral cooperation on women’s empowerment, child welfare, and social development. The meeting covered various issues of mutual interest, including women's rights, sustainable development for women and children, prevention of child marriage, and counter-terrorism cooperation.
Minister Zahid described France as a trusted and longstanding development partner of Bangladesh, appreciating France’s continued support since Bangladesh's independence. He highlighted the government’s initiatives under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, including issuing Family Cards in women's names and making education for women free up to the undergraduate level.
Ambassador Séré-Charlet praised Bangladesh's efforts in promoting women's empowerment and child protection, noting significant contributions towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He assured France's continued technical and development cooperation in areas such as women's skills development, vocational training, and building climate-resilient communities.
During the meeting, Minister Zahid sought France's support in creating employment opportunities for trained Bangladeshi women caregivers in France and expanding the export of handicraft products made by Bangladeshi women. The French ambassador responded positively to these proposals. Ambassador Séré-Charlet also invited the minister to participate in the Feminist Foreign Policy Conference scheduled for September.
This meeting signifies the importance of international collaboration in advancing women's rights and child welfare, highlighting Bangladesh's commitment to these critical areas under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.
