French President Emmanuel Macron is on a two-day visit to Vietnam, where he spoke strongly about the importance of building a world that follows international law. In a powerful speech, he said the world must not return to a time when strong countries controlled weaker ones through fear, violence, or force. Instead, he called for a peaceful and fair global order based on law, rules, and cooperation.
This statement came during his official visit to Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. Macron’s visit shows that France wants to strengthen its ties with Vietnam and increase its presence in Asia, especially in the Indo-Pacific region. Vietnam is one of the fastest-growing economies in the region, and it plays a key role in balancing global powers like China and the United States.
President Macron gave his speech at the Vietnam National University in Hanoi, where he met with students and young leaders. He told them that the future of the world depends on peace, mutual respect, and shared rules that every country must follow. He warned against countries that try to break these rules or use power to get their way.
He said, “We must not go back to the law of the jungle, where the strongest decides. We must build a world where international law and peaceful cooperation guide our actions.”
His message was clear: No country should be allowed to act without punishment if it breaks international law, especially if it harms civilians or invades other nations. While Macron did not name any country directly, many experts believe his words were aimed at countries like Russia, which invaded Ukraine, and China, which has been accused of aggressive actions in the South China Sea.
France’s Growing Role in the Indo-Pacific
France is not a small player in the Indo-Pacific region. It has territories like New Caledonia and French Polynesia, and it also has a strong navy operating in the Indian Ocean. Macron’s visit shows that France is serious about being part of the political and security discussions in Asia.
France also wants to support countries like Vietnam, the Philippines, and Indonesia that are facing pressure from China’s territorial claims in the South China Sea. These countries want to protect their waters and natural resources but do not want conflict. France supports their right to do so through peaceful and legal means.
Macron said that the world must protect freedom of navigation, which means all countries should have the right to move their ships through international waters without fear. He said, “France supports free and open access to the seas, and we will always defend it.”
This part of Macron’s speech was especially important because many Asian countries depend on trade routes that pass through the South China Sea. If there is conflict or control by a single country, it could hurt economies all over the world.
Macron’s Message to Young People
Macron spent time talking to Vietnamese youth, encouraging them to play a role in building a better world. He said that young people are the future leaders and decision-makers, and they must believe in peace, science, and cooperation between nations.
He urged them to fight against fake news, online hate, and division. He said, “We are in a time when lies spread fast, and people are made to hate each other. But truth, education, and culture can bring us together.”
This message connected deeply with the students. Many asked Macron questions about war, education, the environment, and technology. He responded warmly and urged them to travel, learn, and work with people from different cultures.
Strengthening France-Vietnam Relations
Macron’s visit also focused on building economic and cultural ties with Vietnam. France and Vietnam have a long history, going back to when Vietnam was a French colony. Today, the two countries have good relations, and France wants to increase trade, education exchange, and cooperation in science and technology.
During his visit, Macron met with Vietnamese President To Lam, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, and other top leaders. They discussed new agreements in areas such as climate change, renewable energy, and digital technology.
France also wants to help Vietnam with green development. Macron promised support for clean energy projects and said France would continue to provide funding and technology for Vietnam to meet its climate goals.
France is already a key European trading partner for Vietnam, and Macron wants to increase French investments in the country. He also announced plans to expand French language programs in Vietnamese schools and promote student exchange programs between the two nations.
Support for Ukraine and Global Peace
Even though the visit was in Asia, Macron used this chance to talk about the war in Ukraine and the importance of protecting peace around the world. He said that the invasion of Ukraine by Russia was a direct attack on international law, and countries must stand together to defend the rules that keep the world safe.
He said, “If we let one country break the law and take another country’s land, then no country is safe. We must all support peace and justice.”
France has been a strong supporter of Ukraine and has provided military and humanitarian aid. Macron said the world must not forget the people suffering in war zones and must work together to stop such conflicts.
A Balanced Foreign Policy
Macron’s speech also showed his desire for a balanced foreign policy. While France is part of NATO and works closely with the United States, Macron also believes that Europe should not be fully dependent on any single power. He wants Europe to be strong, independent, and able to speak with its own voice in global matters.
His trip to Vietnam is part of that strategy. By building strong partnerships in Asia, France is showing that it can be a bridge between different parts of the world. Macron also wants to show that democratic values, international cooperation, and peaceful development can win over fear and power struggles.
A Message That Matters
In today’s world, where many countries are facing conflict, political tension, and economic challenges, Macron’s message was timely and powerful. By speaking from Vietnam, a country that has experienced war and is now growing peacefully, he showed that development and peace are possible.His call for a “world based on law” is not just a political statement. It is a reminder that the global community must stand together to protect justice, human rights, and the rule of law.
