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Vietnamese President To Lam Awarded France's Highest Honor in Paris
Vietnamese President To Lam received France's highest honor, the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honor, during a ceremony in Paris. He held talks with President Macron, agreeing to deepen bilateral ties and expand cooperation in economy and security, reinforcing the strategic partnership between Vietnam and France, the first EU nation to reach this highest tier of relations with Vietnam.
Vietnamese President To Lam received France's highest honor, the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honor, during a ceremony in Paris on September 10. The Legion of Honor, established in 1802, recognizes individuals and organizations for their exceptional contributions. Earlier, President Emmanuel Macron and his wife welcomed To Lam and his wife at Les Invalides in Paris. The two leaders then held talks, met the press, and witnessed the exchange of cooperation documents. During their meeting, they agreed to maintain regular contact at leadership and working levels across all channels, make fuller use of existing cooperation mechanisms, and explore ways to deepen cooperation in specific sectors. They particularly agreed to expand cooperation in defense and security, the economy, trade, science and technology, and education. Vietnam and France established a strategic partnership in 2013 and a comprehensive strategic partnership in October 2024, making France the first EU country to reach the highest tier of relations with Vietnam. Economic ties between the two nations are also growing. According to Vietnam Customs, two-way trade reached approximately $6.3 billion in 2025, an increase from the previous year. France ranks 16th among 153 countries and territories investing in Vietnam, with 746 active projects and about $4 billion in registered capital. Vietnam, in turn, has 20 active projects in France worth $38.78 million. This visit and the awarding of France's highest honor to President To Lam underscore Vietnam's commitment to strengthening its international ties, particularly with Europe, and enhancing its global standing. In Vietnam's one-party system, the international recognition and diplomatic activities of its leaders are crucial for bolstering domestic legitimacy and international prestige. Deepening ties with France could open avenues for greater access to European markets and technology transfer, playing a significant role in Vietnam's economic growth strategy.
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VnExpress International