General Secretary and President To Lam was honored in Paris when French President Emmanuel Macron conferred upon him the Grand Cross Medal of Merit, the highest distinction within the Order of the Northern Star. Established in 1802, this order recognizes individuals and organizations that have made exceptional contributions, and the Grand Cross represents its most prestigious rank. The ceremony took place on September 10 at the Invalides Palace where President Macron and his wife formally welcomed General Secretary and President To Lam and his wife. Following the welcome, the leaders addressed the press, engaged in talks, and oversaw the signing of cooperation documents that underscored the depth of the bilateral relationship.

The discussions between the two leaders emphasized the importance of maintaining regular contact across all levels of government and enhancing cooperation mechanisms to meet evolving development needs. They agreed to expand collaboration in defense and security, economy and trade, science and technology, and education. The partnership between Vietnam and France has steadily advanced, beginning with the establishment of Strategic Partnership status in 2013 and evolving into a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in October 2024. France became the first European Union nation to reach this highest level of relations with Vietnam, a milestone that reflects the significance of the bond between the two countries.

Economic ties continue to strengthen as bilateral trade reached approximately 6.3 billion USD in 2025, marking growth from the previous year. France currently ranks sixteenth among 153 countries and territories investing in Vietnam, with 746 active projects amounting to about 4 billion USD in registered capital. Vietnam also maintains 20 valid investment projects in France with a total registered capital of 38.78 million USD. Beyond economic cooperation, cultural and historical exchanges remain vital. General Secretary and President To Lam expressed gratitude to France for returning the Dong Son Bronze Drum to Vietnam, a gesture that reinforced the shared commitment to preserving heritage and honoring mutual agreements.