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On 16th November, 2023, France made the decision to grant the People's Committee of Hanoi a donation of over 700,000 EUR to fund a feasibility study for the renovation of the Long Bien Bridge. This iconic structure, integral to Hanoi's heritage and urban landscape, serves as a powerful symbol of the unique bond between our two countries. The former "Paul-Doumer" bridge, designed in the Eiffel style, was constructed between 1898 and 1903 and suffered damage during the American bombings of 1967. Subsequently, Vietnamese authorities restored it, particularly to ensure the continuity of the connection between Hanoi and Haiphong.
In 2004, during his visit to Vietnam, the President of the French Republic, Jacques Chirac, announced that France would fund the rehabilitation of the Long Bien Bridge. Since then, France has financed several studies and expert missions. In recent years, Hanoians have once again expressed their desire to see France more involved in the renovation of this bridge. The funding for this new study in the 50th anniversary year of diplomatic relations between France and Vietnam constitutes a significant gesture in this regard.
Conducted by the French engineering firm Artelia, the study funded by the Directorate General of the Treasury has been designed to minimize the impact of the renovation on road and rail traffic. Designed for a swift implementation, it will propose a renovation compatible with the future use of the Long Bien Bridge, currently under discussion among various departments of the city of Hanoi. While the condition of the bridge has continued to deteriorate in recent years, the French side expresses the hope that renovation work can be initiated promptly once the study's conclusions are available.
Closely associated with the project, the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) is available to discuss the financing of the subsequent construction work with the Hanoi authorities.
Ambassador Mr. Olivier Brochet commented on the funding of the feasibility study: "We hope that this study and, more importantly, the subsequent renovation work will not only secure the bridge but also transform this iconic heritage structure of our shared history into a facility that contributes to the radiance of the city of Hanoi."
"The Long Bien Bridge is an essential and exceptional piece of art, for which we are particularly honored to mobilize the expertise of the Artelia Group (established in Vietnam for nearly 20 years). We will find the best renovation solutions for the benefit of Hanoians and sustainable mobility," stated Eric Gratton, General Director of Artelia Vietnam.
Contact : naslinje@afd.fr