French President Emmanuel Macron is scheduled to visit Vietnam next week, marking the first visit by a French head of state in nearly ten years. Macron’s state visit to Hanoi is scheduled for May 25, as part of a larger Southeast Asian tour that will also include visits to Indonesia and Singapore. His visit coincides with heightened worldwide interest in Southeast Asia’s growing economic and geopolitical importance.
Infrastructure, energy, and satellite technology are among the top priorities, according to officials. France is ready to sign up to 30 agreements with Vietnam, with a probable signing ceremony set for Monday. Talks are ongoing to replace Vietnam’s earth-observation satellite, which was launched in 2013 and manufactured by Airbus Defence’s predecessor. A memorandum of understanding could be inked during Macron’s visit.
France also plans to strengthen energy cooperation, particularly in renewable energy, through the EU-backed Just Energy Transition Partnership. Nuclear energy discussions will take place, but no rapid deal is expected. Vietnam is restarting its nuclear energy program, and Russia, Japan, the United States, and South Korea are considering collaboration.
Macron may also highlight France’s involvement in Vietnam’s $67 billion high-speed train project between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
