French President Emmanuel Macron is travelling to Southeast Asia to strengthen France’s reputation as a trusted and transparent global partner. As geopolitical tensions between the United States and China escalate, Macron seeks to position France and the European Union as credible alternatives without political conditions. French officials indicated that his visit will indicate a commitment to fair cooperation.
Macron’s tour begins on Sunday in Hanoi, Vietnam, marking the first visit by a French president in nearly ten years. He will then fly to Indonesia before concluding in Singapore, where he will address the prestigious Shangri-La Dialogue, Asia’s leading defence forum.
Throughout the journey, Macron will promote international cooperation and commerce under clear, consistent norms. A senior presidential adviser emphasised France’s rejection of coercive techniques commonly associated with other states. Vietnam, which relies largely on exports, has expressed increased concerns about market instability and the need to diversify away from China.
Multiple deals are allegedly in the works, with probable signings during the three-nation visit. Macron will also address Indonesian students and use his Singapore speech to clarify Europe’s position on global challenges.
