The event is part of a tourism promotion campaign organized from May 4 to 13 in Milan (Italy), Geneva (Switzerland), and Paris (France), led by the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism in collaboration with the Hue People’s Committee, the Tourism Development Support Fund, Vietnam Airlines, and other partners.

In his address, Nguyen Trung Khanh, Director General of the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism, emphasized that the program indicates the strong ties and half-century friendship between Vietnam and France, particularly following the upgrade of their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2024.

He noted that tourism cooperation between the two countries spans over two decades, marked by important agreements such as the 1996 Tourism Cooperation Agreement, the 2005 Implementation Protocol, and the 2018 Letter of Intent on Tourism Cooperation. Vietnam has also facilitated travel for French visitors by unilaterally extending visa exemption from 15 to 45 days, effective from August 15, 2023.

The air connectivity between the two countries has grown steadily with regular direct flights operated by Vietnam Airlines, helping France remain a key source market for Vietnamese tourism.

In 2024 alone, Vietnam welcomed nearly 279,000 French visitors, a 97% recovery compared to the pre-pandemic period. In the first quarter of 2025, over 102,000 French tourists visited Vietnam, up more than 28% year-on-year, a promising sign for further tourism growth.

Nguyen Trung Khanh affirmed that tourism is a key pillar in the Government’s Resolution 25 on national economic development in 2025. The sector aims to attract 22–23 million international visitors and 120–130 million domestic tourists, generating total revenue of approximately VND 1 quadrillion.

Vietnamese Ambassador to France Dinh Toan Thang stressed that Paris being selected as a key destination for the campaign reflects Vietnam’s strong commitment to the French market. The event plays a vital role in promoting Vietnam's image, boosting cultural exchange as well as international friendship.

Hoang Kim Anh, Director of the Tourism Development Support Fund, highlighted the event as a result of close coordination between government agencies, localities, and businesses. It also reflects the state’s focused investment in tourism as a spearhead economic sector.

Nguyen Tien Hoang, Chief Representative of Vietnam Airlines in France and Europe, said that the airline is expanding its network to new destinations such as Denmark in 2026, reaffirming its commitment to connecting Vietnam with Europe.

At the event, a representative from Hue introduced the city's heritage tourism, traditional craft villages, and signature cuisine to attract tourism partnerships as part of the 2025 National Tourism Year – Hue. Various live performances, including traditional court music, as well as hands-on experiences like royal cuisine and craft demonstrations, drew great interest from French businesses and travelers.

Le Y Linh, Director of Vietravel’s European Office and President of the Vietnam Cultural and Tourism Promotion Association in Europe, stressed that the program plays a vital role in enhancing Vietnam’s competitiveness and expanding its customer base. Echoing this view, Yulia Santalova, Sales and Production Director for France and Switzerland at Discovery Trains, said the event offered a valuable platform for partners to explore potential collaborations.

The promotion program in France is set to run through May 13, featuring activities such as B2B meetings, destination showcases, fashion shows, and culinary presentations. Attendees also had the chance to enjoy Vietnamese specialties, Vietnamese coffee and tea, as well as participate in prize draws for round-trip tickets between Europe and Vietnam, premium tours, and hotel vouchers.

Thai Binh introduces scholar Le Quy Don, local culture in France

A delegation of Thai Binh province held a conference in Paris on late April 10 to spotlight the life and contributions by scholar Le Quy Don, a great man of culture born in the northern province, while showcasing the local cultural richness and tourism potential.