Vietnam, France boost maritime, cultural, and regional cooperation

THE HANOI TIMES — French President Emmanuel Macron highlighted enhanced cooperation in ocean protection, cultural exchanges, and regional connectivity, as well as France's support for Vietnam's strategic autonomy and regional leadership within ASEAN. 

French Ambassador to Vietnam Olivier Brochet shared the news at a press briefing held in Hanoi on June 4 to discuss the results of Macron's visit on May 25-27.

Ambassador Olivier Brochet reaffirmed that France considers Vietnam a key partner in its Indo-Pacific strategy. Following Macron's visit, the two countries are looking to strengthen their engagement at both the bilateral and ASEAN frameworks.

“Vietnam holds a special place in France’s regional connectivity strategy with ASEAN,” said the ambassador. He emphasized France’s commitment to supporting Vietnam’s growing role in Southeast Asia and promoting shared values of sovereignty, cooperation, and sustainable development.

Amid rising geopolitical uncertainties, France and Vietnam have adopted a proactive approach. Instead of passively reacting to external tensions, the two countries have agreed to strengthen their cooperation by respecting international law and maintaining strategic autonomy. According to Brochet, this approach is essential for maintaining peace and stability in the region.

France maintains a permanent military presence in the Indo-Pacific, conducting ongoing maritime operations to uphold freedom of navigation, fueling a more structured defense dialogue and increased collaboration with Vietnam on regional security.

Maritime cooperation emerged as a key priority as France is working closely with Vietnam in preparation for the upcoming United Nations Ocean Conference in Nice later this year. France hopes Vietnam will continue playing an active role in advancing global commitments to marine sustainability.

The cooperation is also revealed through several joint projects, including a pilot vessel monitoring system funded by the French Development Agency (AFD), as well as coastal protection and marine ecosystem programs. “Vietnam’s contributions are essential to regional marine governance,” the ambassador said.

Cultural diplomacy was also a highlight of President Macron’s visit. The French leader visited Van Mieu (Temple of Literature) in Hanoi, met with local artists, and discussed traditional Vietnamese art forms, including lacquer painting and music.

"From lacquerware to music, we felt a deep cultural resonance between our two nations," said Ambassador Brochet, adding that such interactions pave the way for stronger people-to-people ties.

France also expressed a desire to welcome more Vietnamese students, particularly those pursuing French-language programs. "France offers a great opportunity for Vietnamese youth with its high-quality education at reasonable costs," Brochet remarked.

Both sides stressed the importance of building strategic trust as the foundation for long-term cooperation, driven by regular dialogue and concrete joint initiatives, especially in defense and security.

The joint statement issued during Macron’s visit outlined specific commitments to strengthening defense cooperation. These include co-developing defense equipment projects, enhancing collaboration on historical memory, and contributing to United Nations peacekeeping missions.

Both nations acknowledged the need to reinforce their strategic autonomy by aligning their defense goals with their respective capacities and priorities.

“Vietnam is not just a partner but a trusted friend we want to walk alongside in shaping the future of the region,” Ambassador Brochet stated.