Outgoing French Ambassador to Vietnam Nicolas Warnery bids farewell to President Vo Van Thuong, July 10, 2023. (Photo: VNA)

At a reception for outgoing French Ambassador to Vietnam Nicolas Warnery on Monday, President Thuong asked the ambassador to convey his invitation to French President Emmanuel Macron, saying that Vietnam is ready to welcome the leader for a visit at a suitable time.

Vietnam expects that France would soon ratify the EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA), he said.

Speaking highly of France’s stance on the East Sea issue, the State leader expressed his hope that France would continue backing ASEAN's and Vietnam's stance on ensuring security, safety and freedom of navigation and overflight in the East Sea, and settling disputes through peaceful means in accordance with international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

Ambassador Warnery said President Macron wants to meet with President Thuong soon to discuss comprehensive cooperation.

France is also willing to work with Vietnam to preserve French-style cultural works and architectural heritages, particularly Long Bien bridge, an iconic symbol of Hanoi, he said.