Dhaka, Feb. 24 -- France has welcomed the launching of new think tank - Foundation for Strategic and Development Studies (FSDS), describing this initiative as a very encouraging step.

"France has always been advocating for our partner, Bangladesh, to pursue strategic autonomy. This is a very encouraging first step towards achieving it," said the Embassy of France on Monday.

Ambassador of France to Bangladesh Marie Masdupuy participated in the launching event of the Foundation for Strategic and Development Studies (FSDS), a unique initiative, on Sunday evening.

The new think tank was launched to unify national stakeholders for fostering cooperation, security, and sustainable growth with "Bangladesh First" as its mantra.

"Our main areas...