During his meeting with the Chairwoman of the HCM City People’s Council, Pham Phuong Thao in HCM City on October 13, Poncelet described the Vietnam-France relationship as a bright example of bilateral ties between the two countries based on mutual understanding and respect, looking into the future and having similar concerns over global issues.

Poncelet, former speaker of the French Senate, spoke highly of Vietnam’s role as ASEAN Chair.

Vietnam will be a gateway for France and Europe to penetrate Asia and vice versa Vietnam will approach Europe through France as the European country is going to hold the G20 Chair, he said.

Chairwoman Thao stressed status of the friendship and cooperation between Vietnam and France, saying that as Vietnam’s large donor France has assisted HCM City in education and training, healthcare and culture.

Also at the meeting, Poncelet shared his concern over cultural and architectural heritages in the city, saying the heritages were important for French people.

Chairwoman Thao expressed hopes that France would continue to help HCM City preserve and restore significant architectural buildings.