The call was made at recent talks between Vietnamese Ambassador to France Duong Chi Dung and leaders of Marseille in Bouche de Rhone province, 800 kilometers south of Paris. 

During their talks, the Marseille officials wish to further cooperate with Vietnam in general and some localities in particular. They said the city will create the best possible conditions for Vietnamese expatriates in Marseille and Bouche de Rhone. 

Major of Marseille Jean-Claude Gaudin suggested organising a Vietnam Week in Marseille in 2013, when it becomes European Capital of Culture. 

Ambassador Dung mentioned some of the activities to be held in Marseille at the end of this year and in 2013 to boost friendship and cooperation between Vietnam and France in general and Marseille in particular. 

The ambassador underlined Vietnam’s priorities in relation with France as both countries busy preparing for their 40th anniversary of diplomatic ties and building their bilateral relations into a strategic partnership.