French President Emmanuel Macron addressed around 150 students at the University of Science and Technology in Hanoi during his six-day Southeast Asian tour. He cautioned them about the unpredictable nature of global powers, stating that “on the impulse of a superpower, everything can change.” His comments come as the Biden administration’s rhetoric and actions toward China have grown increasingly bellicose. He called this standoff a game-changer for the area.
While in Hanoi, Macron paid an especially moving visit to the Vietnamese war memorial. There, he paid homage to the courageous fighters who resisted French colonial oppression. This sign of friendship was a powerful and humbling reminder of past connections and the delicate nature of global affairs. In his speech, he called for a “third way” for Southeast Asia. He promoted France’s “Indo-Pacific strategy” as a model of this going further showing countries the way to protect their sovereignty between bigger powers.
In fact, the French president has made a point of criticizing not only the United States but China, specifically calling out the unpredictability of U.S. trade policy. “The United States is imposing tariffs according to the side of the bed on which he woke up,” he remarked, addressing concerns about economic stability in the region. He emphasized the importance of maritime freedom in the South China Sea, urging China to remember that “freedom of navigation, maritime freedom is important for the South China Sea.”
Throughout the session, Macron took his time connecting with students, hearing their questions and even letting a few students speak to him in French. Nguyen Thi Thuy Linh, a 21-year-old student, said she found Macron very “friendly and approachable.” She reminisced about the kind of penetrating, yet warm and funny, conversations he drew out of the audience.
Macron’s address didn’t just take the form of an in-person conversation with students. He engaged more than 100 students via a video link from a side room for those unable to fit into the packed university hall. His work sought to fill voids in global awareness and inspire young audiences to critically engage with the challenges facing our world.
Macron cautioned students against this “world of fools” that rules social media. He underscored the need for critical thinking to assist them in cutting through the clutter of complicated international stories. He stated, “I do not believe all words are equal. I think there are people who know (things) and people who know less,” underscoring the need for discernment in information consumption.
As Macron departed Hanoi for Indonesia, he continued to highlight France’s commitment to deepening ties with Southeast Asia. This outreach coincides with a turbulent geopolitical shift in the region. His upcoming stops in Singapore make clear his commitment to building bridges of dialogue and cooperation across the region.
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