Vietnam Partners With France in Expanding Cultural Cooperation Through Arts, Heritage and Global Exchanges

Written By: Manab Baidya

Manab Baidya

I am currently studying for MA in English while also currently pursuing Journalism at Dibrugarh University. Passionate about storytelling, media, communication, and creative expression through words. Working as a Content Writer in the travel and tourism industry, where I transform destinations, experiences, and cultures into engaging stories. Constantly learning, exploring new ideas, and building a journey driven by creativity, curiosity, and meaningful content. Believer in growth, good vibes, and the power of words to connect people across the world.

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September 12, 2026 09:01 GMT+5:30

Vietnam and France promote cultural cooperation Vietnam and France are entering a new stage in their cultural cooperation as both countries are stepping up efforts to expand collaboration in arts, heritage, cinema, performing arts, and global cultural exchanges. Vietnam and France have developed new projects aimed at promoting Vietnamese culture abroad and building long-standing relationships in the sector.

During the official visit to France by General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee and President To Lam, cultural cooperation was highlighted as an important bridge connecting the two nations. Madame Ngo Phuong Ly, spouse of President To Lam, discussed cultural expansion with French Culture Minister Catherine Pégard, focusing on strengthening artistic exchanges, developing new cultural programmes and creating more opportunities for Vietnamese heritage to reach international audiences.

A major milestone in this growing relationship was the return of a valuable Dong Son bronze drum from France to Vietnam, representing a significant step in heritage cooperation and cultural diplomacy between the two countries.

Vietnam and France Expand Cultural Partnership Through Arts and Heritage

The relationship between Vietnam and France has long been shaped by historical, educational and cultural connections. In recent years, both nations have placed greater emphasis on using culture as a platform for dialogue, mutual understanding and international cooperation.

The expanded partnership is focused on bringing Vietnamese cultural identity closer to global audiences while encouraging French expertise and creativity to support Vietnam’s cultural development.

The cooperation covers several important areas:

The partnership is expected to create more opportunities for cultural tourism by encouraging visitors to explore Vietnam’s traditions, historical sites and artistic achievements.

Vietnamese Theatre and Performing Arts to Reach French Audiences

One of the major initiatives proposed through the cultural partnership is the organisation of a Vietnamese Theatre Week in France.

The event is expected to showcase the diversity of Vietnamese performing arts through a combination of traditional and contemporary presentations. Planned performances include water puppetry, musical theatre, contemporary dance and selected extracts from traditional Vietnamese art forms.

The programme is expected to be hosted at major cultural venues in Paris, allowing French audiences to experience Vietnam’s artistic heritage directly.

Water puppetry is among Vietnam’s most recognised cultural expressions. Originating from rural communities in northern Vietnam, the traditional art form combines wooden puppets, live music, storytelling and skilled performances conducted on water stages.

By presenting such cultural experiences internationally, Vietnam aims to strengthen cultural visibility and encourage greater interest in heritage-based travel experiences.

The theatre initiative follows previous cultural promotion activities, including Vietnamese film showcases in France, reflecting a broader effort to introduce different aspects of Vietnam’s creative identity.

Dong Son Bronze Drum Return Marks Historic Heritage Cooperation

One of the most symbolic moments of Vietnam-France cultural cooperation was the return of a Dong Son bronze drum, an ancient artefact representing Vietnam’s rich historical heritage.

The handover ceremony in Paris marked an important achievement in heritage collaboration between the two countries. The artefact was transferred from the Museum of Fine Arts in Rennes to Vietnam’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism.

The return of the drum was viewed as more than the transfer of an archaeological object. It represented shared respect for cultural heritage, historical identity and international cooperation in protecting valuable artefacts.

The Dong Son culture is considered one of Southeast Asia’s most important Bronze Age civilisations. Its bronze drums are internationally recognised for their artistic designs, advanced metalworking techniques and historical importance.

The surfaces of these drums often feature detailed patterns connected with ancient Vietnamese life, including agricultural activities, ceremonies, nature and community traditions.

The artefact had been seized by customs officials at Rennes Airport in 2014 after questions emerged regarding its documentation. It was later transferred to the Museum of Fine Arts in Rennes for preservation and research before arrangements were made for its return to Vietnam.

The repatriation demonstrated how cultural cooperation can contribute to protecting heritage while strengthening diplomatic relationships.

Vietnam France Cooperation Supports Museums, Cinema and Creative Exchange

Beyond heritage preservation, Vietnam and France are working to expand cooperation between cultural institutions, museums and creative organisations.

Vietnam has encouraged stronger partnerships in specialised cultural fields, including museum collaboration, historical research and artistic exchanges.

Cinema has also been identified as an important area of cooperation. Greater participation in international film events and stronger links with French cultural institutions could provide new opportunities for Vietnamese filmmakers to reach international audiences.

The two countries have also explored ways to share historical documents and strengthen cooperation between cultural organisations.

Heritage and Culture Create New Tourism Opportunities

The growing Vietnam-France cultural partnership is also expected to support tourism development by creating new reasons for travellers to explore both destinations.

Modern travellers are increasingly seeking meaningful experiences connected with history, traditions and local communities. Cultural exchanges, exhibitions and artistic events can encourage visitors to discover destinations through heritage rather than only conventional sightseeing.

Vietnam’s ancient traditions, historic landmarks and performing arts offer significant opportunities for cultural tourism growth. Meanwhile, France’s museums, galleries and artistic institutions provide valuable platforms for international cultural interaction.

The partnership can help create new travel experiences centred around:

• Heritage exhibitions
• Cultural festivals
• Performing arts events
• Museum collaborations
• Creative workshops
• Historical tourism routes

France and Vietnam Strengthen Future Cultural Connections

The cultural relationship between Vietnam and France continues to evolve through cooperation that combines heritage protection with innovation.

The return of the Dong Son bronze drum, expansion of performing arts programmes and increased collaboration in cinema and creative industries demonstrate how cultural diplomacy can strengthen international relationships.

By connecting traditional heritage with modern artistic exchanges, Vietnam and France are creating new opportunities for cultural understanding and tourism growth.

Vietnam and France are expanding their cultural cooperation through works of art, heritage and global outreach as the two countries boost creativity, promote heritage preservation and advance new opportunities for cultural tourism and international exchange.

The growing exchange of culture has demonstrated the criticality of its role as a common language. With more efforts put into joint projects in the spheres of art, heritage and global outreach, Vietnam and France are deepening their relationship beneficial for communities, tourists, and future generations.