Why did the French send Giovanni da verranzo to Americas?

The French sent Giovanni da Verrazzano to the Americas in 1524 to explore the eastern coast of North America in search of a northwest passage to Asia. His mission aimed to expand French territorial claims and establish trade routes, particularly for valuable resources like spices and gold. Verrazzano's voyage also sought to promote French interests in the New World amidst increasing competition from other European powers, particularly Spain and Portugal. His explorations ultimately contributed to France's understanding of the North American coastline and its potential for colonization.