The General Secretary of the Communist Party and President of Vietnam, Tô Lâm, concluded an official visit to France, marking the elevation of bilateral relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership.
France thus becomes the first EU country to establish such a partnership with Vietnam. This meeting, held at the invitation of President Emmanuel Macron, strengthens the political and economic ties between the two nations.
A historic summit for Franco-Vietnamese relations
From October 3 to 7, 2024, Vietnamese President Tô Lâm made an official visit to France at the invitation of President Emmanuel Macron. This visit, the first by a Vietnamese leader in 22 years, also coincided with the 19th Francophonie Summit in Paris. Emmanuel Macron expressed his gratitude for Vietnam’s active participation in this significant international event.
During their meeting, the French president congratulated Tô Lâm on his recent election and expressed solidarity with the Vietnamese people following the damages caused by Typhoon Yagi. Macron pledged France’s support in recovery efforts.
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A new comprehensive strategic partnership
During this visit, France and Vietnam took a significant step forward in their diplomatic relations. The two countries announced the elevation of their partnership to a comprehensive strategic partnership, making France the first European Union country to establish such a relationship with Vietnam. This partnership aims to strengthen cooperation in key areas such as defense, security, the economy, and sustainable development.
In addition to these commitments, both leaders agreed to enhance cultural and educational exchanges, and to support strategic autonomy in various sectors. A joint declaration was signed to formalize the agreement, underscoring the importance of this relationship in the current global geopolitical context.
The two leaders met at the Élysée Palace on October 7. Photo: AFP
“Francophonie” at the center of discussions
Alongside his visit, Tô Lâm also actively participated in the 19th Francophonie Summit. Together with international leaders, he attended official welcoming ceremonies and plenary discussions on critical topics such as creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
The French Business Forum (FFA) was a key moment, highlighted by the presentation of the French Economic Award, in which Vietnam played a role.
Diplomatic and symbolic meetings
During his stay, Tô Lâm also met with several international dignitaries, Vietnamese intellectuals living abroad, and representatives of global organizations. Notably, he held a working session with the Director-General of UNESCO and paid tribute to President Hồ Chí Minh by laying a wreath at his statue in Montreuil.
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Source: Vietnam Insider