Overseas Vietnamese people in France welcome Party leader Nguyen Phu Trong on an official visit to France

Established in 1973, the Vietnam-France relationship has developed rapidly, particularly since Vietnam joined ASEAN in 1995 and strengthened its ties with the European Union. Vietnam is included in France’s policy on enhancing ties with Southeast Asia. The two countries have a similar stance on major international issues like sustainable development, cultural diversity, and the role of multilateral mechanisms in globalization management.

Milestones in 45 years of diplomatic ties and 5 years of strategic partnership

In the last 45 years, France has become one of Vietnam’s top partners and leading European donors. Hundreds of agreements have been signed between their universities and research centers. More than 7,000 Vietnamese students are studying in France. 20 localities in France and 15 in Vietnam have established bilateral cooperation. France houses the largest Vietnamese community in Europe. The two countries are furthering cooperation in climate change response and agriculture development to ensure sustainable development. Despite their cooperation potential, two-way trade accounts for just 1% of Vietnam’s import-export value.

In the current period, several things have strengthened their ties. France is reforming drastically to boost its role and influence in Asia. Vietnam’s economy is growing rapidly, as is its status in ASEAN and East Asia. The two countries have similar views on international issues.

New momentum for the Vietnam-France strategic partnership

Party leader Nguyen Phu Trong’s visit takes place amidst drastic changes in France since President Emmanuel Macron took office in 2017. The new French administration is focused on socio-economic reform and strengthening its role in the EU, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia and in addressing global issues like climate change and free trade promotion.

Vietnam and France share a vision of a multi-polar world and multilateralism based on mutual respect, equality, win-win cooperation, peace, and inclusive development. As key members of the EU and ASEAN, France and Vietnam have key roles in promoting EU-ASEAN ties.

Party leader Nguyen Phu Trong’s visit to France shows Vietnam’s respect for and wish to strengthen its cooperation with France.