The Vietnam – France relationship is a long-standing traditional bond. Having gone through many ups and downs in history, the relationship between the two countries has traversed different stages, with periods of brilliant development, periods of stagnation, and times of decline due to the influence of various objective and subjective factors. Today, as the trends of peace, regional and international cooperation for development are becoming common global trends, every nation, whether large or small, rich or poor, developed or developing,... must integrate into this common trend if it does not want to be left out of the flow of the era. In that context, both Vietnam and France must quickly adopt foreign policies appropriate to the new situation to increase opportunities, create favorable conditions for the development of their nations and peoples, and simultaneously resolve the difficulties they are facing. While France has early recognized the potential of the Asia-Pacific region, home to the most dynamically developing economies in the world, and has implemented a policy towards Asia, Vietnam has also been implementing a foreign policy of multilateralization and diversification, attaching importance to relations with economic and political centers in the world and expanding cooperation with European countries.
Within ASEAN, Vietnam is increasingly gaining a political and economic foothold and holding an important role. Therefore, Vietnam is perfectly suited for the role of a bridge helping France penetrate the ASEAN market as well as the vast Asian market. Furthermore, France is one of the world's leading powers and holds a key role in Europe, especially in the European Union. Thus, promoting friendly relations with France will create favorable conditions for Vietnam to expand and develop economic relations with EU member states in particular and European countries in general. This convergence of interests is a great driving force for the leaders of both countries to put forth appropriate policies to build and consolidate the strategic partnership between France and Vietnam. Overcoming differences in political institutions, disparities in the level of economic development, and leaving behind the pain of a past historical period, the Vietnam – France relationship is increasingly developing comprehensively in all fields, from politics – diplomacy, economy, culture, science – technology to defense – security, while sharing interests for the peace and prosperity of the people of both countries. We would like to respectfully introduce this book to readers.
Excerpt from National Political Publishing House./.
