HANOI, Vietnam (AP) - French President Emmanuel Macron called for enhanced cooperation between Vietnam and France amid a turbulent global landscape during his visit to Hanoi as part of a Southeast Asia tour aimed at strengthening regional ties. Emphasizing the necessity for "an order based on law," Macron expressed concerns over the prevailing "great imbalance" and the resurgence of power-driven rhetoric and intimidation in international relations.
The timing of Macron's visit is particularly significant, as trade tensions have escalated, exemplified by the United States threatening steep tariffs on European goods. In April, Vietnamese imports to the U.S. faced a staggering 46% tariff, making it one of the highest rates applied to any country. In this context, Macron's tour underscores France's commitment to fostering partnerships that can help counterbalance these economic challenges.
During his visit, Macron signed over a dozen agreements spanning defense, nuclear power, and trade. Notably, he reached a deal with the Vietnamese budget airline VietJet and Airbus for the acquisition of 20 A330-900 planes. Additionally, Macron paid homage at a war memorial in Hanoi, honoring those who resisted French colonial rule. His engagements included meetings with Vietnamese leaders, such as President Luong Cuong and Communist Party General Secretary To Lam, emphasizing the historical ties and contemporary partnership between the two nations.
Macron's itinerary also featured a visit to the Temple of Literature, a historic site dating back to the 11th century, located in the heart of Hanoi. He articulated that the "sovereignty partnership" between France and Vietnam could play a pivotal role in France's strategy in the Indo-Pacific region. This is particularly relevant as France has demonstrated its commitment to upholding international maritime law, notably deploying a carrier strike group in the South China Sea in early 2025.
Amid ongoing maritime disputes, China and Vietnam have long shared an agreement governing the Gulf of Tonkin but are currently entangled in competing claims over the Spratly and Paracel Islands, along with surrounding maritime areas. Macron affirmed France's supportive role in crucial sectors for Vietnam, including critical minerals, high-speed rail, civil nuclear energy, and aerospace. He also highlighted France's intention to assist Vietnam in transitioning from coal power to more sustainable energy solutions, encompassing renewable and civil nuclear energy developments.
This visit marks Macron's first trip to Vietnam since he assumed office in 2017. The relationship between France and Vietnam is founded on a comprehensive strategic partnership, which represents the highest diplomatic status Vietnam has, shared only with Russia, China, and the United States. Through these engagements, Macron aims to reinforce the ties between France and Vietnam, positioning their partnership as a crucial element in navigating the complexities of the current international landscape.
