Singapore — French President Emmanuel Macron commenced the Singapore leg of his Southeast Asia tour with a symbolic gesture of cultural diplomacy—sampling local street food alongside Prime Minister Lawrence Wong.

The two leaders, dressed informally in rolled-up shirts and trousers, visited a popular hawker centre and interacted with vendors and citizens. The casual interaction was shared on Macron’s official Instagram account with the caption: “Third visit to Southeast Asia: Singapore. Great meeting PM Lawrence Wong. Before we work, let’s enjoy the local flavours!”

This public engagement, while relaxed in nature, sends a diplomatic signal rooted in approachability and respect for local culture. It reflects a growing trend among world leaders to strengthen international relations through cultural touchpoints and people-oriented diplomacy.

Macron’s visit to Singapore follows earlier stops in Vietnam and Indonesia. In Jakarta, he held bilateral discussions with President Prabowo Subianto, toured Borobudur Temple in Central Java, and addressed cadets at the Indonesian Military Academy in Magelang.

France has been actively seeking a stronger role in the Indo-Pacific, and Macron’s tour is widely viewed as part of this strategic recalibration. By investing in cultural diplomacy and bilateral engagement, France aims to reinforce its presence in a region that is increasingly vital to global economic and security frameworks.

Singapore, as a hub of regional diplomacy and multicultural exchange, provided an ideal setting for Macron to underline France’s commitment to ASEAN partnership. The warm and visible reception from locals further underscored the goodwill shared between both nations.

As Southeast Asia continues to grow in strategic importance, such diplomatic visits—particularly those that highlight cultural connection—remain pivotal in shaping the tone of future cooperation.