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.
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Source: NDO