Vietnam holds welcome ceremony for French president

Amid the mild and pleasant weather of the capital city, State President Cuong and his spouse stood ready at the palace courtyard to receive the French president and his spouse as their motorcade arrived at around 9:50 am.

The two leaders and their spouses exchanged warm greetings before being presented with a bouquet of fresh flowers by Hanoi children.

They then proceeded together to the ceremonial podium as a military band played in celebration.

As Presidents Cuong and Macron stood in solemn respect, the national anthems of both France and Vietnam were performed.

Following the anthems, President Cuong invited President Macron to review the honor guard.

The ceremony continued with the introduction of high-ranking officials from both countries attending the event.

Shortly afterward, the two presidents entered into bilateral talks, witnessing the signing of cooperation agreements.

They also held a joint press briefing to announce the outcomes of their discussions.

This visit marks President Macron’s first official trip to Vietnam since taking office in 2017.

In October last year, Vietnam and France elevated their relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership, making the latter the first country in the European Union to establish this level of partnership with the Southeast Asian nation.

President Macron arrived in Hanoi on Sunday evening for a three-day visit.

On the second day of his trip, he participated in two key ceremonial activities: laying wreaths at the monument to war heroes and martyrs on Bac Son Street and paying tribute to late President Ho Chi Minh at his mausoleum in Hanoi.