France offers support to Yunus, interim government

France is ready to support Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus and the interim government in their efforts to rebuild Bangladesh, French Ambassador to Bangladesh Marie Masdupuy said today.
During a courtesy call on the chief adviser at the State Guest House Jamuna, the French envoy conveyed French President Emmanuel Macron’s invitation for Yunus to visit France at a convenient time.
She also expressed her condolences over the loss of lives during the student-led movement.
Prof Yunus emphasised that the movement has provided the interim government with an opportunity to rebuild the nation.
“It is a big task, but also a big opportunity. If we don’t seize it, it will be a significant failure,” he said.
The chief adviser assured that the interim government would remain in power “as short as the people want or as long as they want,” and reiterated his call for national reconciliation, urging citizens to view themselves as part of a big family.
“Sometimes, we disagree very strongly. But that does not mean we are enemies,” he said.
He said his government is committed to protecting the rights of every citizen.
“Let’s establish human rights. Our job is to make the constitution work for us,” he added.
The French envoy outlined areas where France is already collaborating with Bangladesh, including civil defence and expressed interest in expanding cooperation in combating corruption, human trafficking, cybercrime, and enhancing security at ports and airports.
She noted that fighting corruption would be a key enabler for further boosting trade and investment in Bangladesh, as many businesses are currently hindered by customs and investment authority issues.
The Alliance Francaise Dhaka would celebrate its 65th anniversary next October and she invited Professor Yunus at the ceremony, she said.
Additionally, France is preparing for a two-week Bangladesh cultural season in Paris in April 2025.
She further said French companies are interested in establishing three solar parks in Bangladesh and installing lightning arresters in 15 lightning-prone districts across the country.