Dhaka:French Ambassador to Bangladesh, Jean-Marc Sere-Charlet, has expressed admiration for the Bangladeshi government's initiatives and social welfare programs focused on empowering women, ensuring gender equality, and protecting disadvantaged children.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the ambassador's appreciation was conveyed during a meeting with Social Welfare and Women and Children Affairs Minister Prof Dr A Z M Zahid Hossain at the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban. The meeting covered topics of mutual interest, including enhancing bilateral cooperation, investment, women's empowerment, the protection of women's rights, the Family Card programme, and sustainable development for women and children.
Minister Zahid Hossain highlighted France as a reliable and friendly development partner, expressing gratitude for French assistance and cooperation since Bangladesh's independence. He noted that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman prioritizes women's rights by introducing the Family Card in women's names, reflecting an inclusive approach to women's development. The government is also expanding allowance programs to improve living standards for persons with special needs, including installing ramps and accessible washroom facilities.
The minister further explained that the Family Card programme is a universal social security initiative with ongoing data collection nationwide. The programme issues cards in the names of the eldest women in five-member families, providing financial assistance for household expenses, children's education, agricultural activities, and small businesses.
In another development, the French Development Agency plans to launch the 'Feminist Foreign Policy Plus (FFP+) Local Group' at the French Embassy in Dhaka on November 25. This group, which includes Canada, France, Germany, Morocco, Nepal, Spain, and the United Kingdom, aims to promote gender equality and women's rights. The French ambassador has invited Minister Zahid Hossain to attend the launch event as the chief guest.