A New Diplomatic Milestone: Vietnam-France's Comprehensive Strategic Partnership

On October 7, 2024, Vietnam and France officially affirmed the upgrading of relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, marking an important milestone in the diplomatic ties between the two nations. This move positions France as Vietnam’s 8th Comprehensive Strategic Partner, and the first country in the European Union (EU) to establish a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with Vietnam.

Vietnam and France established diplomatic relations in April 1973. Over the past 50 years, they have built a good relationship, marked by high-level visits and regular exchange mechanisms on politics, economy, and defense at all levels. This bilateral partnership, in particular, indicates not only the significance of their cooperation but also France’s Indo-Pacific strategy, aligning with Vietnam’s strategic goals in terms of security, trade, and regional stability.

In addition, this strategic partnership has broader implications for both countries on the regional and global stage. France is a key power in Europe, actively promoting its global role, and has important interests and influence in Asia. Vietnam is a fast-growing, dynamic economy, playing an important role in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and East Asia. The two countries also share many similar views and interests in international issues, especially climate change, international security and sustainable development.

The cooperation highlights the following key areas:

Economic And Trade Cooperation

Both countries agreed to continue advancing their trade and investment ties, with an emphasis on fully implementing the Vietnam-EU Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) and moving forward with the (EVIPA). These agreements are set to enhance trade flows and create more opportunities for both French and Vietnamese enterprises. France also pledged to support Vietnam’s efforts in sustainable fisheries management by advocating for the removal of the European Commission’s "yellow card" warning on Vietnamese seafood.

Energy And Environmental Collaboration

France’s commitment to helping Vietnam transition toward green energy is another cornerstone of the upgraded partnership. Both nations are working closely under the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP), a program designed to support Vietnam’s shift to renewable energy. This collaboration focuses on areas where France has considerable expertise, such as hydrogen energy and renewable energy technologies. By fostering joint projects in these fields, the two nations aim to contribute to global efforts to mitigate climate change.

Security And Defense

Security and defense cooperation has also been highlighted as a crucial component of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to conducting regular high-level dialogues on defense and security, sharing expertise in military training, and cooperating on cybersecurity and counterterrorism.

These efforts are intended to enhance regional stability, particularly in the context of growing geopolitical tensions in the South China Sea. Vietnam and France agreed on the need to uphold international law, specifically the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) 1982, to ensure peace and stability in the region.

Science, Technology, And Education

France and Vietnam have long collaborated in education and scientific research, and this partnership aims to take these efforts further. With a focus on high-tech fields such as artificial intelligence and aerospace, both countries will intensify exchanges of knowledge and expertise.

France also committed to offering more scholarships and opportunities for Vietnamese students to study in French universities, further strengthening people-to-people ties. This initiative not only aims to boost the academic credentials of Vietnamese students but also to build a stronger foundation for future technological cooperation.

Cultural And People-To-People Exchanges

The large Vietnamese community in France, which numbers over 300,000, plays a vital role in maintaining cultural and social ties between the two nations. The Comprehensive Strategic Partnership will continue to foster these connections through cultural exchange programs and events, further cementing the relationship between the peoples of both countries. The Vietnamese diaspora in France has been instrumental in supporting Vietnam’s development and will continue to act as a bridge in the new phase of the partnership.