Macron urges partnership with Vietnam amid rising global tensions

Hanoi, Vietnam, recently welcomed French President Emmanuel Macron as he urged for closer cooperation amid rising global instability. During his visit, Macron emphasized the necessity of a law-based order in a world characterized by imbalance and intimidation. This visit marks his first trip to Vietnam since taking office in 2017 and the first formal visit by a French president in almost a decade. Besides meetings with Vietnamese leaders, including President Luong Cuong, Macron paid tribute at a war memorial, showcasing the historical ties between France and Vietnam. The signing ceremony featured over a dozen agreements including a notable one with VietJet Air for the purchase of 20 Airbus A330-900 planes. Additional agreements covered cooperation in various sectors such as defense, nuclear energy, and civil aviation. Macron's agenda also touched on issues of mutual interest, especially in light of trade tensions with the United States, which threatened high tariffs on European goods. Vietnam, being heavily export-dependent, faces pressure to strengthen trade relations with the U.S. while maintaining ties with Europe. The recent unrest in global trade dynamics makes this partnership increasingly critical. Macron's visit is part of a broader Southeast Asia tour that includes stops in Indonesia and Singapore. He highlighted that the France-Vietnam relationship could act as a central axis for France’s approach in the Indo-Pacific region. In defense matters, both countries seek to enhance their partnership, with Vietnam's president noting the importance of information sharing and cooperation in cybersecurity and anti-terrorism efforts. Additionally, Macron mentioned France's commitment to supporting Vietnam as it diversifies its energy sources, moving away from coal and towards renewable and nuclear energy. The historical relationship dates back to the period of French colonial rule, which lasted approximately 70 years. The dynamics have evolved significantly in recent years, with Vietnam upgrading its diplomatic status with France to one of comprehensive strategic partnership—on par with relations it maintains with major powers like the U.S. and China. Macron's visit and the agreements signed illustrate a mutual desire to strengthen ties and counter challenges presented by shifting geopolitical landscapes and trade tensions in the region.