French President Emmanuel Macron has called for stronger cooperation between Vietnam and France as he visited the country on a tour to strengthen regional ties. Macron emphasized the need for an “order based on law” in a world where there is rising global instability, including trade tensions with the US.
During his visit, Macron signed over a dozen agreements on defense, nuclear power, and trade, including a deal with Vietnamese budget airline VietJet to buy 20 planes from Airbus. He also paid tribute at a war memorial for those who fought against French colonial rule and met with Vietnamese leaders.
Macron highlighted France’s commitment to defending international maritime law and its desire to support Vietnam in key sectors such as critical minerals, high-speed rail, and renewable energy. The two countries have a comprehensive strategic partnership, one of the highest diplomatic statuses held by Vietnam alongside Russia, China, and the US.
This is Macron’s first trip to Vietnam since taking office in 2017, and it comes amid increased competition for influence in the Indo-Pacific region. France has been actively engaged in promoting its “sovereignty partnership” with Vietnam as a central axis of its approach in the region.
Source: https://abcnews.go.com/Business/wireStory/frances-macron-visit-vietnam-urges-greater-cooperation-defense-122191313