IRIA News

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Vietnam and France have officially elevated their bilateral relationship to a “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership” during a landmark visit by Vietnam’s Party General Secretary and President To Lam to Paris. France is the first European Union (EU) country to reach the highest level of diplomatic relations with Vietnam.

The upgrade, announced by both President Lam and French President Emmanuel Macron, comes at a time when both nations are exploring the deepening of ties in the different regions of the world.

During their talks in Paris on October 8, 2024, both leaders expressed a shared commitment to aligning their efforts and ensuring that the partnership continues to evolve in the face of changing global dynamics. They discussed a wide array of issues, from defense cooperation to trade, infrastructure, and climate change, underscoring the growing importance of Vietnam in the international arena.

Strengthening defense cooperation

One of the central pillars of the newly upgraded relationship is defense and security cooperation. Both leaders emphasized the need to effectively implement existing agreements, such as holding the Vietnam-France Defense Strategy and Cooperation Dialogue, enhancing officer training, and sharing expertise in crime prevention and control.

This commitment also reflects the broader strategic concerns of both nations, particularly in maintaining stability and peace in Southeast Asia and other regions of mutual interest.

The recent visit of French Armed Forces Minister Sebastien Lecornu to Vietnam during the 70th anniversary of the Dien Bien Phu Victory was seen as a symbol of the two countries’ respect for shared history and future collaboration. The two sides vowed to support each other at global and regional security forums, further cementing defense as a key area of cooperation

Economic cooperation and trade boost

The economic dimension of the Vietnam-France relationship is also experiencing a significant boost. As of the first eight months of 2024, bilateral trade turnover between the two countries reached $3.4 billion, a 6.9% increase compared to the same period in 2023. Both leaders expressed satisfaction with this growth and pledged to continue fostering economic cooperation.

President Lam emphasized the need for France to expedite the ratification of the EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA), a move that could significantly enhance trade relations. Macron, in turn, confirmed his commitment to recommending the EVIPA ratification to the French Parliament.

Additionally, Lam sought France’s support in advocating for the European Commission to lift the “yellow card” warning on Vietnamese seafood exports, which has been a concern for Vietnam’s export sector.

In line with their focus on economic cooperation, the two leaders committed to promoting the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) and exploring opportunities for concessional loans and Official Development Assistance (ODA) for Vietnam. There is also growing interest in areas where French expertise could complement Vietnam’s development goals, particularly in infrastructure, renewable energy, aerospace, and artificial intelligence.

Climate cooperation

Climate change and environmental sustainability were also high on the agenda. Macron lauded Vietnam’s commitment to the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP), which aims to accelerate the country’s shift towards greener, more sustainable energy sources. Vietnam, a country highly vulnerable to climate change’s impacts, has actively sought international support for its energy transition.

President Lam acknowledged France’s leadership in climate action and expressed hope for further collaboration in ecosystem-based development models that balance economic growth with environmental sustainability. Both leaders agreed to expand cooperation in ecological and circular agriculture, with an eye on ensuring global food security, particularly through trilateral partnerships involving France, Vietnam, and developing countries.

Cultural exchange

Education and cultural exchange form another significant aspect of the Vietnam-France partnership. Both sides agreed to enhance collaboration in training high-quality human resources, creating more opportunities for Vietnamese students to study in France. Scholarships and increased cooperation between academic institutions will support these efforts.

President Macron also highlighted the important role of the Vietnamese community in France, calling it a “bridge” between the two countries. He reaffirmed his commitment to providing favorable conditions for the community to live and work in France.

Regional peace and stability

In their talks, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to supporting peace, stability, and the rule of law on the international stage. They reiterated the importance of addressing global conflicts, including the situations in Ukraine, the Middle East, and the South China Sea (East Sea), through peaceful means and adherence to international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

Macron praised Vietnam’s diplomatic efforts in promoting dialogue and peaceful resolution of disputes, while Lam reaffirmed Vietnam’s consistent foreign policy of “bamboo diplomacy” a flexible, adaptable approach to maintaining balanced relations with major global powers.

The signing of numerous cooperation agreements during Lam’s visit further solidified the commitments made by both sides in the areas of diplomacy, culture, education, transportation, and internal affairs. The elevation of Vietnam-France relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership is a significant milestone that will have far-reaching implications for both countries.