Mon May 26 10:16:30 UTC 2025: ## Macron Courts Vietnam with “Third Way” Amid US-China Tensions
**Hanoi, May 26, 2025** – French President Emmanuel Macron concluded the first leg of his Southeast Asia tour in Vietnam today, advocating for a rules-based world order and offering France as a reliable alternative for the nation caught between the competing influences of the United States and China.
During a joint press conference with his Vietnamese counterpart, Luong Cuong, Macron highlighted the necessity of international law in an era of increasing power plays and intimidation. He presented France as a potential partner for Vietnam, which faces economic pressure from the U.S. in the form of threatened tariffs and territorial disputes with China in the South China Sea.
Macron’s visit, which began Sunday, saw the signing of approximately a dozen agreements between France and Vietnam, including collaborations in the nuclear energy sector to help Vietnam meet its growing energy demands. In a significant economic development, Vietjet announced an order for 20 Airbus A330-900 aircraft, doubling its previous commitment in a deal valued at an estimated $8 billion.
“It is truly a new page being written between our two countries… a desire to write an even more ambitious page of the relationship between Vietnam and France, between ASEAN and the European Union,” Macron stated.
The French President also paid his respects at a war memorial, honoring those who fought against French colonial rule, and met with key Vietnamese leaders, including Communist Party General Secretary Tô Lâm, considered the most powerful figure in the country.
However, the visit has drawn criticism. Human Rights Watch (HRW) urged Macron to address Vietnam’s deteriorating human rights record, highlighting the imprisonment of over 170 political prisoners under “draconian laws” that suppress free expression. While Macron is known to favor private discussions on sensitive issues, the call for a public statement underscores the gravity of the situation.
Macron’s visit takes place as Vietnam navigates a complex relationship with both the U.S. and China. While sharing Washington’s concerns over Beijing’s assertiveness in the South China Sea, Vietnam maintains crucial economic ties with its neighbor. Furthermore, the threat of substantial U.S. tariffs has added to the pressure.
According to a French diplomatic official, Macron’s “Indo-Pacific strategy,” offering a “third way” between the two global powers, has gained increased relevance amidst President Trump’s trade policies. This approach aims to uphold international trade rules and prevent a scenario where “the law of the strongest prevails.”
Vietnam continues to pursue a “bamboo diplomacy” strategy, seeking strength through flexibility and maintaining positive relations with major global powers. Macron’s visit marks a crucial step in this ongoing balancing act. The French President is now scheduled to visit Indonesia and Singapore as part of his six-day Southeast Asia tour.
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