The event was attended by the OIF Permanent Representative to the UN, the Chair of the Group of Francophone Ambassadors in New York, as well as ambassadors, heads of mission and representatives of OIF member and observer states, along with partners in the Francophone community at the UN.

In his speech, Ambassador Do Hung Viet, Permanent Representative of Vietnam to the UN, said International Francophonie Day and French Language Day at the UN, both observed annually on March 20, are an occasion to highlight the role and vitality of the French language, as well as the values shared within the Francophone space, including multilateralism, cultural diversity, dialogue, solidarity and international cooperation.

French continues to play an important role in UN activities, contributing to multilingualism, a core value of multilateralism, and helping promote exchanges, understanding and connections among nations and peoples, he said.

The Vietnamese diplomat reaffirmed that, as an active and responsible member of the Francophone community, Vietnam views Francophonie as a linguistic space and a space for sharing, solidarity and joint action towards common goals of the international community.

The reception took place in a warm and friendly atmosphere, showing Vietnamese cultural identity and helping strengthen exchanges and ties between Vietnam and countries and partners in the Francophone community, while presenting Vietnam as a dynamic and culturally rich country that actively integrates internationally and contributes responsibly at multilateral forums, including the UN and the OIF.

On the occasion, the Permanent Mission of Vietnam to the UN also introduced its candidate for a position as judge at the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea and held exchanges and informal discussions with member states, partners and friends within the Francophone community at the UN.

Francophone businesses ready to embrace new investment opportunities in Vietnam

French enterprises and the wider Francophone business community are poised to seize emerging investment and business opportunities in Vietnam, particularly in sectors where France holds advantages such as energy, sustainable development, infrastructure, semiconductors, as well as agriculture, transport, health care, and pharmaceuticals.