Locals exercising around the lake were astonished to recognize the visiting French president and his wife.

President Macron and Madame Brigitte walked with several security staff from Ly Thai To Street to Le Lai Street, where the statue of King Ly Thai To stands. They then visited Ngoc Son Temple and took a full walk around Hoan Kiem Lake.

President Macron wore a classic suit, while the First Lady stood out in a bold red ensemble. The couple strolled leisurely, chatting and asking their entourage about the scenery of the Vietnamese capital.

Their walk and sightseeing lasted around one hour, ending at about 11 p.m. when they returned to their hotel.

Located on Jade Island in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple is famed for its traditional architecture and tranquil beauty. At night, the illuminated The Huc Bridge, Turtle Tower, and the temple itself create a stunningly poetic scene.

Ngoc Son Temple is not only a spiritual landmark but also a popular tourist destination, representing the deep cultural heritage of Hanoi.

Here, President Macron and his wife viewed the taxidermy specimen of the legendary Hoan Kiem Lake turtle. The President showed particular interest, asking detailed questions about the display.

This species, the giant softshell turtle Rafetus swinhoei, is deeply embedded in Vietnamese legend and associated with heroic national history. Tragically, the last known specimen from Hoan Kiem Lake died in January 2016, but a preserved specimen remains on display for visitors to see up close.

“I am here to strengthen our ties in critical areas”

President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron arrived in Hanoi just a few hours ago. This state visit marks an important milestone in bilateral relations, particularly after France and Vietnam upgraded their partnership to a comprehensive strategic level. It follows the significant visit of General Secretary To Lam to France and his participation in the 19th Francophone Summit in October 2024.

Today, President Macron is scheduled to hold key meetings and discussions with Vietnam’s top leaders.

The French Embassy in Vietnam also published a statement from President Macron upon his arrival:

“After a long journey, we’ve arrived in Hanoi with the French delegation. This is the first stop in a strategic tour to Vietnam, Indonesia, and later Singapore.

It is here, in the Indo-Pacific region, that part of our shared future is taking shape.

The greatest challenges of this century - climate, economy, geopolitics - can only be addressed through cooperation with our partners, especially in this part of the world, a vital hub of global trade and a cradle of innovation, growth, and technology.

That is why France is present and engaged with its partners, through concrete projects that serve the region, our two countries’ businesses, and our shared future.

I am here to deepen our cooperation in key sectors: defense, innovation, energy transition, and cultural exchange.

Everywhere I go, I repeat one simple truth: France is a force for peace and balance. We are a reliable partner, committed to dialogue and cooperation. While some countries turn inward, France chooses to build bridges.”

Tran Thuong - Pham Hai