French President Emmanuel Macron is trending globally following his high-profile diplomatic tour of Southeast Asia, particularly his recent visit to Vietnam.
This marks his first official trip to the country since assuming office in 2017 and is part of a broader strategy to position France as a reliable partner in the Indo-Pacific region.
During his visit to Hanoi, Macron and Vietnamese leaders signed 14 significant agreements spanning defense, aviation, space, and healthcare sectors.
A notable highlight was the deal for 20 Airbus A330-900 aircraft for VietJet, reinforcing Airbus's dominant presence in Vietnam's aviation market.
Additional agreements focused on cooperation in nuclear energy, railways, vaccine production, and satellite partnerships, underscoring France's commitment to deepening economic ties with Vietnam.
Macron emphasized the importance of a rules-based international order amid rising global tensions. He portrayed France as a "reliable and trustworthy friend" to Vietnam, especially in the context of escalating geopolitical rivalries involving the United States and China.
This stance aims to offer Southeast Asian nations an alternative partnership model that respects sovereignty and promotes mutual growth.
The visit also had cultural and symbolic significance. Macron paid tribute at a war memorial honoring those who fought against French colonial rule and engaged in cultural exchanges that highlighted the shared history and evolving relationship between France and Vietnam.
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However, the trip was not without its lighter moments. A video clip showing First Lady Brigitte Macron playfully interacting with President Macron upon their arrival in Hanoi went viral, sparking discussions online. The Élysée Palace downplayed the incident, describing it as a private, lighthearted moment between the couple.
Macron's Southeast Asia tour, which includes upcoming visits to Indonesia and Singapore, is a strategic move to strengthen France's influence in the region. By fostering closer ties with countries like Vietnam, France aims to enhance its role in regional security, economic development, and the promotion of international norms and values.
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