Speaking at the signing ceremony in Hanoi on October 10, Director General of Vietnam Airlines Duong Tri Thanh said the historical agreement will help tighten the comprehensive cooperative ties between the two airlines

It will not only make it easier to travel between the two countries, but will also promote trade, investment, and cultural exchanges between Vietnam, France and Europe, bringing huge benefits for people and businesses, he added.

The agreement also demonstrates the commitment and determination of Vietnam Airlines to increase investment in the global arena, especially the French and European markets via the key route between Vietnam and France, he noted.

For his part, Director General of Air France Franck Terner said the joint venture deal with Vietnam Airlines is one of the strategic development plans of Air France, namely "Trust Together”.

This agreement will bring long-term benefits to the two airlines as well as their customers, he said, adding that the ultimate goal of Air France is to maintain and develop its position in the promising region.

Over the past 20 years, Vietnam Airlines and Air France have established sustainable cooperative relations in various fields. In 2010, the two airlines signed a code share deal for air routes between Paris and Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City as well as provide mutual support in maintaining airplanes and human resources training.

France has been one of the most important markets of Vietnam Airlines in Europe since it launched the first direct air route to Paris in 2003. The two airlines carry more than 400,000 passengers every year.