The French Development Agency (AFD) is dedicated to continuing its collaboration with Hanoi to develop sustainable transport solutions, said Cyrille Bellier, Head of the Asia-Middle East-Europe Division, AFD, at a meeting with Vice Chairman of Hanoi People's Committee Duong Duc Tuan on September 20. 

This commitment was made in the context of the early milestone achieved by the elevated Metro Line No. 3, where the agency plays a key role.

"As a contributor to the project’s success, AFD is delighted that the rail line is operating effectively and has received such a warm welcome from Hanoi's residents," said Cyrille Bellier

Vice Mayor of Hanoi Duong Duc Tuan meets with Cyrille Bellier, Head of the Asia-Middle East-Europe Division, AFD. Photo: The Hanoi Times

During his trip to Hanoi, Bellier shared that the AFD delegation had experienced the newly opened elevated section of Metro Line 3 and praised the quality of its construction.

The French-backed railway attracted one million passengers in its first month of operation and received positive feedback from users.

The project has secured substantial financial backing from France, with the French Treasury and AFD providing concessional loans of €355 million (US$391 million) and €159 million (US$175 million), respectively. Key French companies, including Alstom, Thales, and Colas Rail, play vital roles in the project, supplying rolling stock, signaling systems, tracks, and electromechanical equipment.

He also emphasized that the agency will continue to support Hanoi in various areas, including eco-friendly public transport solutions.

Expressing gratitude for AFD’s support of the urban railway project in Hanoi, Vice Chairman Tuan outlined plans for the upcoming project phases. He noted that the remaining underground section, featuring four additional stations, will extend from Tran Hung Dao Street to Hoang Mai.

“The Ministry of Planning and Investment has already urged the government to approve proposals related to the implementation of this line,” Tuan stated.

Meanwhile, Hanoi is actively studying and addressing challenges to develop timely solutions, ensuring that the project meets its goals and deadlines, he added.

Tuan also stressed the strong partnership between Hanoi and several regions in France, particularly Ile-de-France, which provides a solid foundation for further cooperation between Vietnam and French localities.

Among these projects, Tuan highlighted the renovation of Long Bien Bridge, which has received initial backing from the French Embassy to study and propose technical solutions for its restoration.

He expressed hope that AFD would continue to support and share its expertise on this initiative, an offer the French agency agreed to consider and support as much as possible.