During the meeting, both sides reviewed key milestones in Vietnam-France diplomatic relations and recent bilateral defense cooperation. France was the first European Union (E.U.) nation to establish a comprehensive strategic partnership with Vietnam and remains the country’s important defense partner in Europe.

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Major General Vu Trung Kien receives Rear Admiral Jacques Riviere.

Following the third Vietnam-France Defense Strategy and Cooperation Dialogue in 2023, the Vietnamese Minister of National Defense and the Minister of the French Armed Forces signed a Letter of Intent on enhancing Vietnam-France defense cooperation on May 5, 2024. As part of this agreement, both countries are committed to expanding training cooperation to strengthen the capabilities of their navies and coast guard forces. The agreement also facilitates French naval vessels’ visits to Vietnam to enhance professional exchange and mutual understanding.

As part of these efforts, the French Navy’s multi-mission frigate Provence, carrying 159 officers and sailors, will make a courtesy visit to Ho Chi Minh City from February 28 to March 6. On this occasion, Rear Admiral Jacques Riviere expressed his hope that the Vietnam Coast Guard’s force and the Provence crew would conduct joint search and rescue exercises, further enhancing mutual exchange and cooperation.

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Delegates at the meeting

Major General Vu Trung Kien highly valued the positive cooperation between the Vietnam Coast Guard and the French side over the past time, noting that French Navy port calls and training programs have bolstered Vietnam’s maritime law enforcement capabilities. He highlighted the considerable potential for further collaboration, especially in tackling non-traditional security challenges like transnational crime, environmental issues, search and rescue operations, and maritime security.

Looking ahead, both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation in capacity-building, information exchange, coordination, and mutual support in maritime law enforcement.

Translated by Trung Thanh