How will Vietnam’s new leadership team influence the development of relations between Vietnam and France?

Ambassador Olivier Brochet: French President Emmanuel Macron and Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu have extended their warmest congratulations to Vietnam’s key leaders, wishing them success in their responsibilities. France has reaffirmed its full support for Vietnam within the framework of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, aiming to assist the country’s development.

France particularly welcomes the orientations set out at the 14th Party Congress, which outline an ambitious roadmap for Vietnam’s development in the coming decades.

France stands ready to support Vietnam in this new era of development, especially in advancing economic transformation, energy transition and technological modernization.

In an increasingly uncertain international context, peace and stability are more essential than ever for the success of such an ambitious agenda. France and Vietnam share a common vision grounded in respect for international law, multilateralism and collective solutions to global challenges.

The relationship between France and Vietnam is rooted in a long history, built on trust and mutual respect. As early as 1977, Prime Minister Pham Van Dong’s visit to France and the signing of initial cooperation agreements laid the foundation for a lasting partnership that has continued to strengthen over the decades.

Since then, France has stood alongside Vietnam during key stages of its development and international integration, particularly following the Doi Moi reforms.

President Mitterrand’s state visit in 1993 - the first by a Western head of state - carried special significance at a time when Vietnam faced considerable challenges and was still under the impact of embargoes.

France has consistently supported Vietnam in integrating into multilateral frameworks and strengthening ties with the European Union, a reliable and essential partner for the future. This strong historical foundation remains a visible and stabilizing factor in today’s bilateral relations.

Vietnam’s new leadership will build on this foundation while pursuing ambitious goals for 2030 and 2045, linking economic growth with green transition and digital and technological transformation. This momentum will further enhance Vietnam’s role regionally and globally.

France will continue to accompany Vietnam in its pursuit of greater strategic autonomy. High-level political dialogue, the quality of exchanges and shared core principles all provide strong advantages for deepening the partnership.

In which areas is France ready to support Vietnam in achieving its development goals and strengthening its international role?

For many years, France has supported Vietnam’s development through a practical approach based on sharing expertise, financing key projects and maintaining long-term cooperation.

This collaboration is built on clear complementarity: Vietnam has ambitious development needs, while France offers internationally recognized expertise and skills, ready to be deployed in support of the partnership.

Education, research and innovation are now priority areas. In line with Resolution 57 of the Politburo and following President Emmanuel Macron’s address to Vietnamese youth at the University of Science and Technology of Hanoi in May 2025, France is working closely with Vietnamese universities, research centers and businesses to strengthen capacity, foster innovation and expand sustainable scientific cooperation.

Energy transition is another key area. Within the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP), France is actively contributing, particularly through the French Development Agency (AFD), to financing and implementing projects related to energy infrastructure and power grids.

This was further demonstrated at the Global Gateway Forum organized by the European Union in Hanoi in March 2026.

Transport infrastructure also offers significant potential, building on achievements such as Hanoi’s Metro Line 3 project. France, a leader in technological innovation, is keen to support Vietnam in developing major projects including railways, urban metro systems and civil aviation - all essential for growth and regional integration.

Cooperation can also expand into high-value strategic sectors. France has solutions to offer in security, defense and space, helping Vietnam enhance its strategic autonomy.

France appreciates Vietnam’s efforts toward sustainable development and responsible management of natural resources, creating long-term value for the country.

Healthcare remains a historic pillar of cooperation, now enriched by comprehensive approaches such as “One Health”, addressing the interconnected challenges of human, animal and environmental health. From basic research to vaccine production - including partnerships such as VNVC-Sanofi - cooperation contributes to the well-being of the Vietnamese people.

Finally, in a volatile global context, France and Vietnam share responsibility in promoting peace, stability and effective global governance. France aims to strengthen exchanges with Vietnam in multilateral forums and support its growing role in advancing shared global interests.

Across all these areas, France intends to continue supporting Vietnam’s sustainable development through a trusted, long-term partnership capable of withstanding challenges and looking firmly toward the future.

Tran Thuong