Leaders at the summit lauded the contributions of the Francophonie community in fostering dialogue, promoting cultural and linguistic diversity, and supporting sustainable development goals in response to global challenges.

The leaders expressed concerns over recent complex developments in the world, particularly in the Middle East, and emphasized the need for reforming multilateral institutions, including those of the Francophonie, to enhance their effectiveness and adapt to contemporary trends.

tong bi thu chu tich nuoc to l 1672 4700 1728173238.png
The General Secretary and President attended the plenary session on the theme "Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Startups." Photo: VNA

In his address on "Innovative Multilateralism," Mr. To Lam affirmed the indispensable role of multilateral mechanisms, praising the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF) and Francophonie institutions for their efforts in addressing international community issues and shaping frameworks and principles for emerging challenges.

The Vietnamese leader highlighted the necessity of linking multilateralism with major transitions, especially digital and green transformations. The Francophonie community must adapt to these trends by supporting members in technology advancement, clean energy development, and successful implementation of Sustainable Development Goals. Science and technology are key for the Francophonie to achieve breakthroughs.

To enhance the efficacy of multilateral institutions, including the OIF, Mr. To Lam called for robust reforms to respond to the rapidly changing global situation and the needs of the Francophonie space.

vnapotaltongbithuchutichnuocduvaphatbieutaiphienhopvimotchunghiadaphuongdoimoi7635174 17281694732732102431743.webp

General Secretary and President To Lam attended and spoke at the session "For an Innovative Multilateralism." Photo: VNA

The Francophonie also needs to innovate by focusing more on member priorities, particularly in terms of economic cooperation and implementing summit documents. Multilateralism can only succeed if it ensures inclusivity, comprehensiveness, and centers on the needs of the people, particularly the youth.

The summit concluded on October 5th after two days of effective and substantive discussions. The heads of state and government of the Francophonie members agreed on several important documents, including the Villers-Cotterêts Declaration, resolutions on political situations and peace consolidation in the Francophonie space, and a solidarity statement with Lebanon.

The Villers-Cotterêts Declaration reaffirms the commitment to the common values of the Francophonie: peace, cooperation, and sustainable development, respecting the United Nations Charter and international law.

base64 17281469683301845523653.webp
General Secretary and President To Lam held bilateral talks with King Norodom Sihamoni of Cambodia.

It highlights the Francophonie's efforts in addressing climate change, promoting gender equality, and fostering cooperation in science, technology, and digital economy.

The declaration also emphasizes the role of the French language in education, teaching, and cultural diversity, committing to promoting its use across its member countries.

During the summit, General Secretary and President To Lam met with Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni, congratulating him on the 20th anniversary of his coronation and Cambodia's achievements. They discussed further enhancing the friendly, traditional, and comprehensive relations between Vietnam and Cambodia, fostering cooperation to meet the practical needs of both nations.

Tran Thuong