HCMC – Bastille Day was celebrated by two organizations in HCMC on July 12, bringing together communities to commemorate the French national day.
The French Consulate General in HCMC hosted a get-together at the Residence of France in District 1, with consuls general from other countries, representatives of the HCMC government, and members of the French community in the city attending.
Speaking at the event, Emmanuelle Pavillon-Grosser, French consul general in HCMC, reflected on the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between France and Vietnam, saying that 2024 is a special year for France as it hosts the Olympic and Paralympic Games as well as the Francophonie Summit.
Pavillon-Grosser also underlined robust economic ties between the two nations, noting that bilateral trade has reached over 7.6 billion euro with France being now the second-largest European Union investor in Vietnam.
Representing HCMC, vice chairman Vo Van Hoan acknowledged France as Vietnam’s fifth-largest trade partner in the EU, with bilateral trade surpassing US$4.8 billion in 2023. He stressed France’s position as the leading European ODA donor to Vietnam.
The French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Vietnam (CCIFV) also held a Bastille Day event in District 3 to celebrate the spirit of liberty, equality and fraternity.
“The event is an opportunity to share the values of French culture with not only the French community but also Vietnamese and international friends,” said Thibaut Giroux, chairman of CCIFV. “It is also a great place to meet colleagues, connect with business partners, and make new friends. Our organization is pleased to bring a festive celebration with a French twist.”
Attendees were treated to a culinary journey through France with an array of signature French dishes, prepared with high-quality local ingredients. The event also showcased a selection of premium French wines and introduced guests to the lesser-known world of French beers.
The celebrations featured a mix of classic and contemporary French music. A jazz band and accomplished French music singers delivered an impressive performance, enveloping the audience in the rich and soulful sounds of France.
