Democratic countries around the world want a democratic order to be restored in Bangladesh soon through a fair election, so that they can work more closely with it, BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury said on Thursday.

“Democratic countries around the world want to see a democratic order restored in Bangladesh soon through a credible election as it will make it easier for them to cooperate with Bangladesh. They are clearly conveying this message,” he said.

The BNP leader made the remarks while talking to reporters after newly appointed French Ambassador to Bangladesh, Jean-Marc Séré-Charlet, met BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir.

The hour-long meeting, which began around 12pm, was held at the BNP Chairperson’s office in Gulshan. Amir Khasru, BNP Joint Secretary General Humayun Kabir and Organising Secretary Shama Obaed were also present at the meeting.

Khasru said the election was naturally a topic of discussion during the meeting and the French side wants the election to be held as soon as possible.

“They emphasised that an early election would create opportunities to advance various areas of cooperation between Bangladesh and France. They expressed hope that the election could take place in the first half of February,” he said.

The BNP leader said several important issues were discussed in detail during the meeting. “One of them was how Bangladesh-France relations might take shape under a new government and the direction the relationship is heading,” he said.

Khasru said the French side shared their thoughts on this, and both sides talked about the possible areas of future cooperation.

He said the discussion particularly focused on expanding collaboration between the two countries in trade, investment and other areas, especially in the creative industry.

Khasru said France is well-known for its rich film, music, art, and cultural heritage, mentioning that renowned Bangladeshi artist Shahabuddin Ahmed also lives in France.

“Alongside trade and investment, we discussed the possibility of major cooperation in the creative industry, which is a key part of our future economic and cultural programme. If our party comes to power, we plan to work closely with France in this sector,” he said.