French President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron arrived in Hanoi on Sunday evening, marking the start of their state visit to Vietnam.
Macron, 47, has served as president of France since May 2017. He is known for his appreciation of Vietnamese culture and cuisine.
After arriving at their hotel from Hanoi's Noi Bai Airport, President Macron and the First Lady took a walk around Hoan Kiem Lake, accompanied by several security guards.
The president frequently asked his entourage about the city's landmarks and scenery, and warmly waved to Vietnamese locals gathered around the lake.
The delegation crossed The Huc Bridge to visit Ngoc Son Temple, located on Jade Island, a small islet in Hoan Kiem Lake near the iconic Turtle Tower.
Together with the lake and the tower, Ngoc Son Temple is one of Hanoi's most famous cultural and historical landmarks, drawing large numbers of visitors year-round.
At the temple, President Macron was briefed on its history and viewed a preserved specimen of the Hoan Kiem turtle, a creature deeply connected to the legend of King Le Thai To (974–1028) and the magical sword.
According to the legend, King Le Loi was given a magical sword to defeat Chinese invaders. After his victory, he returned the sword to a golden turtle in the lake, an act that led to the lake being named Hoan Kiem, meaning "Returned Sword."
The President and First Lady strolled along The Huc Bridge, originally built in 1865 and later reconstructed twice. Its name means "where the aura gathers."
After leaving the temple, the couple continued their walk along the edge of Hoan Kiem Lake, observing and enjoying the daily life of Hanoi residents.
Their evening stroll lasted about an hour, with President Macron showing particular interest in buildings featuring French architectural influences along the route.
Macron's visit, which continues until May 27, marks the fifth by a French president since diplomatic relations were established in 1973 and is his first official visit to Vietnam since taking office.
