France has renewed its support for closer aviation cooperation between Bangladesh and European aerospace giant Airbus, describing such collaboration as a strategic step that would not only strengthen Biman Bangladesh Airlines but also reinforce Bangladesh's long-term partnership with the European Union.

The message came as French Ambassador Jean-Marc Séré-Charlet paid a courtesy call on Biman Bangladesh Airlines Chairman Rumee A. Hossain on Wednesday, where the two sides discussed expanding cooperation in civil aviation amid Bangladesh's ongoing efforts to modernise its aviation sector.

According to the French Embassy, the ambassador said enhanced cooperation with Airbus would strengthen Biman's fleet capacity, contribute to the development of Bangladesh's wider aviation ecosystem and reflect Bangladesh's commitment to building a long-term partnership with the European Union.

The remarks underscored the broader strategic dimension of aircraft procurement, where aviation cooperation is increasingly viewed not merely as a commercial transaction but as an instrument for strengthening economic and diplomatic relations.

Beyond aircraft acquisition

During the meeting, Ambassador Séré-Charlet reaffirmed France's commitment to supporting the continued development and modernisation of Bangladesh's civil aviation sector.

He said Airbus, Europe's flagship aircraft manufacturer, remains committed to supporting the long-term growth of Bangladesh's aviation industry through deeper industrial and commercial cooperation.

The envoy noted that stronger engagement with Airbus could help enhance the operational capability of Biman Bangladesh Airlines while supporting the country's ambition to build a more competitive aviation ecosystem.

Industry observers said the ambassador's emphasis on long-term partnership reflects Europe's broader objective of expanding strategic economic cooperation with Bangladesh beyond traditional trade relations.

Expanding aviation cooperation

Recalling the longstanding and friendly relations between Bangladesh and France, the ambassador discussed opportunities to broaden bilateral cooperation across multiple areas of civil aviation.

He highlighted the successful collaboration between French technology company Thales and the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB), describing it as a demonstration of France's continuing support for Bangladesh's aviation infrastructure and technological modernisation.

Bangladesh has been undertaking major investments in airport infrastructure, air navigation systems and passenger services as part of its ambition to transform itself into a regional aviation hub.

The Third Terminal at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, together with fleet modernisation by the national carrier, forms a central component of that strategy.

Encouraging European participation

The ambassador also emphasised the importance of maintaining a fair and transparent business environment that encourages greater participation by European companies in Bangladesh's aviation sector.

Industry analysts noted that European firms possess extensive expertise in aircraft manufacturing, airport technologies, air traffic management, security systems and sustainable aviation solutions, all areas where Bangladesh continues to expand investment.

Officials familiar with the discussions said the meeting reflected the growing importance both countries attach to aviation as an area of strategic cooperation capable of supporting wider economic engagement.

Aviation diplomacy gathers momentum

The meeting also highlighted how aviation has become an increasingly important pillar of Bangladesh's external economic diplomacy.

As Bangladesh expands its aviation infrastructure, modernises Biman Bangladesh Airlines and pursues its ambition of becoming a regional passenger and cargo hub, international partners are seeking deeper engagement in one of the country's fastest-growing sectors.

For the European Union, stronger cooperation with Airbus represents more than fleet expansion, it aligns with broader efforts to deepen long-term economic partnerships with Bangladesh through investment, technology transfer and industrial collaboration.

For Bangladesh, expanding aviation partnerships with Europe could complement its wider strategy of diversifying international cooperation while strengthening connectivity, competitiveness and sustainable sectoral growth.