Ho Chi Minh City invites France to join railway, financial center projects

Ranaivoson praised the city's energetic growth and said France wants to deepen the comprehensive strategic partnership, upgraded in 2024, through practical cooperation.

He highlighted France's strengths in innovation, finance and cultural exchange, noting that French firms remain active in the city.

The guest said France is ready to share expertise as Ho Chi Minh City prepares to launch its International Financial Center next month.

Many French financial institutions already operate in Vietnam, he said, and could make meaningful contributions to the project.

Duoc said the city is prioritizing economic development, technology and innovation, and hopes France will help connect investment funds interested in the financial center.

He also pointed to new opportunities in maritime economic development in the Ba Ria-Vung Tau area, especially in logistics and seaport services, where France has strong capabilities.

The chairman added that the city plans to build a new railway link from Binh Duong and Dong Nai to Cai Mep Port within the next five years to improve regional connectivity and strengthen the city's competitiveness against major transshipment hubs in the region.