French frigate visits Ho Chi Minh City, reinforcing strategic ties

The French multi-mission frigate Provence, part of France’s aircraft carrier battle group, arrived in Ho Chi Minh City on March 1 for a week-long visit, underscoring France’s commitment to security and stability in the Indo-Pacific.

The warship, commanded by Captain Lionel Siegfried, docked at Lotus Port in District 7 as part of Operation Clemenceau 25, a French carrier strike group deployment across the region. 

The visit belongs to France’s broader strategy to maintain an active presence in the Indo-Pacific region, according to French Ambassador to Vietnam Olivier Brochet.

Speaking aboard the ship on Thursday, Brochet emphasized France’s role in promoting regional security and freedom of navigation.

He noted that the Provence is one of the most advanced warships in the French Navy and that its visit reaffirms France’s longstanding cooperation with Vietnam.

The visit follows similar port calls by French naval vessels, including the Prairial and Vendémiaire frigates in 2023 and 2024, reflecting the deepening defense relationship between the two countries.

During their stay in Ho Chi Minh City, the Provence’s officers met with city officials, the Military Region 7 Command, and the Command of Naval Region 2.

The delegation also participated in professional exchanges, cultural activities, and visits to historical sites in the city and the Mekong Delta.

Brochet expressed optimism about future defense cooperation, noting that France and Vietnam are in the final stages of developing a comprehensive strategic partnership agreement, expected to be approved soon.

He underlined that both sides are working to ensure the partnership reaches its full potential, in line with the strong diplomatic ties between the two nations.

Following the port call, the warship will conduct joint maritime search and rescue exercises with the Vietnam Coast Guard Region 3 off the coast of Vung Tau City, further enhancing maritime security cooperation.

With a length of 142 meters, a width of 20 meters, and a displacement of 6,000 metric tons, the Provence is equipped with advanced radar and sonar systems, a sophisticated combat management system, anti-aircraft missiles, and a naval cannon.

As part of Operation Clemenceau 25, France’s carrier battle group has taken part in several multinational training exercises, including La Pérouse 25, alongside regional partners such as Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore. 

According to the French Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City, these exercises demonstrate France’s commitment to regional security and multilateral defense cooperation.

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