ISLAMABAD: The Ambassador of France to Pakistan, Ms Martine Dorance, has said that relations between France and Pakistan had been greatly strengthened this year. She also said that bilateral dialogue had become more fruitful in many fields. She remarked that relations between both the countries were strong and long lasting adding that French President Francise Hollande met Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif twice during the year. “France is becoming the destination for many young people of Pakistan for study purposes,” said the French ambassador while addressing a ceremony on the occasion of celebrating the French National Day. The Federal Minister for Law, Justice and Climate Change, Zahid Hamid, attended the ceremony as the chief guest. Parliamentarians, diplomats, military officials and people belonging to the business community were also present on the occasion. The ceremony was attended by the national anthems of both the countries. The French ambassador along cut the cake along with the chief guest. The French ambassador further said that France was committed to support the efforts of the Government of Pakistan as well as of the civil society to preserve the planet. “Our economic relations are also bound to bloom and our French companies are gaining strength and optimism in the Pakistani market. They are all over Pakistan,” said the French ambassador.