French President Macron said today (May 27) in a post: "I come to Vietnam with an unwavering belief: our two countries will jointly write a new chapter of history. We can strengthen the framework of prosperity based on strong and reliable rules. Thank you, Secretary Su Lin, for your warm hospitality and our meaningful discussions."
Macron is currently paying a state visit to Vietnam, which is the first visit by a French president in nearly 10 years. Paris hopes to enhance its influence in Southeast Asia. According to reports from Reuters, France and Vietnam signed 14 agreements, and more may be announced on Tuesday (the 27th).
Macron emphasized that France is Vietnam's "reliable, respectful of sovereignty and independence" partner, offering a "third way" outside China and the U.S. However, Macron's vision faces numerous challenges. On one hand, although France has technical advantages in some areas, in Southeast Asia, China, Japan, South Korea, and other Asian countries have been deeply involved in infrastructure construction and trade exchanges for many years, possessing solid cooperative foundations and geographical advantages. For France to gain a share of this pie is no easy task. On the other hand, Vietnam adheres to a "bamboo diplomacy" in foreign affairs, being cautious about Western interference in its internal affairs while developing relations with the West.
Vietnam and France have a special historical relationship. Since the mid-19th century, France opened Vietnam's doors through its powerful navy and cannons, and for nearly a hundred years thereafter, Vietnam became a French colony. During his visit to Vietnam this time, Macron laid a wreath at the martyrs who sacrificed during Vietnam's anti-French war. This action can be seen as France's formal reflection and apology for that colonial history.
Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1833244876014599/
Disclaimer: The article solely represents the author's personal views.