Party leader holds phone conversation with French President Macron

The phone conversation, which took place in a friendly atmosphere on the occasion of the 50^th founding anniversary of Viet Nam-France diplomatic relations (1973-2023) and the 10^th anniversary of the two countries' strategic partnership (2013-2023), is an evidence of the fact that leaders of the two countries attach importance to the strategic partnership and wish to further strengthen cooperation for the benefits of their peoples and for peace, cooperation and development in the region and the world, said Party General Secretary Nguyen.

The Party chief spoke highly of the success of the French Government led by President Macron in conducting reform in various socio-economic sectors in order to build a strong France and enhance its role in consolidating the European Union, thus contributing to settling emerging challenges in Europe and other regions across the world.

Nguyen took the occasion to express thanks to France's cooperation with and assistance for Viet Nam to contain the COVID-19 pandemic.

He informed President Macron about Viet Nam's major achievements after more than 35 years of reform and post-pandemic recovery and the Southeast Asian country's development goals through mid-21^st century as well as its foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, peace, friendship, cooperation, development, diversification and multi-lateralization of external relations.

The Party General Secretary underlined the importance of peace, friendship, cooperation, and compliance with the principles of international law and the UN Charter in settling international issues, including ensuring peace and security in the East Sea.

He noted with pleasure at the comprehensive and good development of the Viet Nam-France relationship and the two sides' active efforts in implementing the Joint Statement issued on the occasion of his France visit in 2018.

The Party chief affirmed that Viet Nam treasures and gives high priority to the strategic partnership with France and supports France's initiatives for global peace, cooperation and development.

President Macron reassured that France attaches importance to Viet Nam's international role and position, and to its strategic partnership with Viet Nam.

He agreed that the two countries need to continue strengthening political trust and people-to-people exchanges, promoting cooperation in defense and security, economy, trade, investment, aviation, energy transition, science and technology, and culture.

Macron voiced his support for stronger ties between Viet Nam and the European Union at both bilateral and multilateral levels.

The two leaders pledged to direct relevant agencies to actively implement the agreed contents. Party General Secretary Nguyen took the occasion to invite President Macron to visit Viet Nam and the latter gladly accepted the invitation./.