Hanoi Stop: Power Grid Deal and Strategic Ties

French President Emmanuel Macron is in Southeast Asia this week,starting with a visit to Hanoi,Vietnam,on Monday. Talks with Vietnamese leaders are expected to solidify a power grid project agreement between the French Development Agency and vietnam’s National Power Transmission Corporation, according to state media. This deal underscores the deepening economic ties between France and Vietnam, particularly in critical infrastructure.

Indonesia and Singapore: Expanding French Influence

Following his Vietnam visit, Mr. Macron will head to Indonesia to further boost bilateral relations. His trip culminates in Singapore, where he is scheduled to speak at the annual Shangri-La Dialog defense summit on Friday. The Elysee office emphasized the importance of these three nations, stating they “illustrate the density of the ties France has forged in ‘all sectors, including energy, transportation and defence.'”

southeast Asia: A Region in the Spotlight

Mr. Macron’s visit follows similar trips by leaders from China, Spain, Japan, and other nations, reflecting Southeast Asia’s increasing importance amid global supply chain uncertainties and trade dynamics.The region is becoming a focal point for international diplomacy and investment.

Upgrading Relations: Vietnam and France

Vietnam and France recently elevated their relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership during a visit to Paris by Communist Party General Secretary To Lam in October. Discussions during that trip centered on enhancing security and defense cooperation, and also closer collaboration in aerospace, transport infrastructure, and renewable energy.

Economic Ties with China: A Balancing Act

As Europe navigates its priorities amid tariff uncertainties with the U.S., France is aiming to strengthen economic ties with China. Following a call with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday, Mr. Macron addressed the importance of fair competition.

Chinese investment is welcome in France, but our companies must benefit from fair competition in our two countries.

This statement, posted on X, highlights France’s desire for balanced trade relations with China.

Human Rights Concerns: calls for Action

Beyond trade and defense, Mr. Macron is facing calls to address human rights issues during his visit to Vietnam. Advocacy groups are urging him to press for the release of civil society activists.

Bénédicte Jeannerod, France director at Human Rights Watch, emphasized the severity of the situation:

The Vietnamese government’s broad and intense crackdown on freedom of speech and assembly is the opposite of what it pledged to France and the EU (European Union). The authorities have jailed an increasing number of democracy advocates and dissidents, and are resisting reforms.
Bénédicte Jeannerod,France director at Human Rights Watch

The pressure is mounting on Mr. macron to balance economic interests with human rights concerns.

Future Relations: Speech at Hanoi University

On Tuesday, Mr. Macron is scheduled to visit the University of Science and Technology in Hanoi, where he will deliver a speech outlining his vision for the future of France’s relationship with Vietnam. This address will likely touch on key areas of cooperation and strategic alignment.