• Macron begins a Southeast Asia tour with significant goals for trade and cooperation.
• He aims for numerous agreements, particularly in defense and energy sectors.
• The visit seeks to position France as a reliable alternative to the US and China.

French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Vietnam on Sunday for the first leg of a Southeast Asia tour, during which he aims to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties amid growing global tensions. This visit marks the first time a French president has traveled to Vietnam in nearly a decade and sets the stage for discussions on collaboration in key areas such as defense, energy, and technology, with the signing of numerous agreements expected, according to India Times and Le Monde.

During his six-day trip, which will also take him to Indonesia and Singapore, Macron emphasized France's position as a "reliable partner" for countries in the Indo-Pacific region. He highlighted the importance of respecting sovereignty amidst tensions involving the US and China, which are increasingly impacting regional dynamics, as reported by South China Morning Post and Reuters.

In Hanoi, Macron plans to meet with top officials and key players in the energy sector, including discussions aimed at showcasing French expertise in civil nuclear energy. France aims to position itself favorably as Vietnam seeks alternatives to traditional energy options, amidst competition from nations like Russia, according to Channel News Asia.

Macron's governance is proceeding against a backdrop of significant trade tensions, especially with the US threatening high tariffs on European goods. His administration is determined to demonstrate that France and the EU can be seen as dependable partners, particularly as Vietnam navigates its trade relationship with the US under increasing pressure to align with American purchasing demands, according to Reuters and India Times.

Overall, Macron's visit is set to result in numerous agreements across various sectors, including defense, aviation, and energy, with around 30 deals expected to be signed that could significantly enhance bilateral cooperation, according to sources within the French administration and observations from regional experts, such as Nguyen Khac Giang, reported by Le Monde.