Vietnamese, French Presidents Hold Ceremony in Hanoi to Boost Strategic Partnership

French President Emmanuel Macron visited Vietnam from May 25-27, 2025, marking his first trip to the country since taking office in 2017 and re-election in 2022. During the visit, he was welcomed by Vietnamese President Luong Cuong with a ceremonial event featuring national anthems, a Guard of Honor, and cultural performances, including a visit to the Temple of Literature – Quoc Tu Giam, Vietnam's first national university and a symbol of the nation's reverence for education and scholarship. The visit highlighted the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries, upgraded in October 2024, with both leaders reviewing cooperation progress and signing key agreements. Economic and trade ties remain strong, with France being Vietnam's fifth-largest trading partner in Europe and a leading provider of Official Development Assistance, focusing on green transition, digital transformation, and innovation. The cultural exchange, exemplified by the visit to the Temple of Literature and planting a friendship tree at the Ho Chi Minh relic site, underscores the importance of educational and cultural cooperation in bilateral relations. The ongoing collaboration spans politics, defense, and economic sectors, reflecting a deepening partnership between Vietnam and France.