French and Vietnamese delegates pose at a photo exhibition honoring Ho Chi Minh City and Lyon, April 22, 2026. Photo: Thanh Hiep / Tuoi Tre
The exhibition was organized by the French Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City, with all photos displayed along the outer wall of the French Residence at 6 Le Duan Boulevard in Saigon Ward.
The open-air setting allows passers-by and photography enthusiasts to view the works freely, transforming a public space into an accessible urban gallery.
The 14 photographs capture everyday slices of urban life, highlighting similarities between the two cities despite their geographic distance.
Scenes such as riverside walks, outdoor sports, and daily activities at local markets reflect shared lifestyles among residents in both Lyon and Ho Chi Minh City.
The photos featuring Ho Chi Minh City were taken by French photographer Adrien Jean, while the images of Lyon were created by Tony Noël, a Lyon-based photographer of Vietnamese origin.
Étienne Ranaivoson, Consul General of France in Ho Chi Minh City, poses with a smile during an interview with Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper, Ho Chi Minh City, April 22, 2026. Photo: Thanh Hiep / Tuoi Tre
Étienne Ranaivoson, Consul General of France in Ho Chi Minh City, told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper that the exhibition reflects the blend of history, tradition, and modern development found in both cities.
The French diplomat said the large rivers flowing through Lyon and Ho Chi Minh City contribute to similar rhythms of urban life in these dynamic metropolitan areas.
The photograph titled ‘Childhood’ taken by French photographer Adrien Jean shows a father holding his child while watching kites fly over Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Thanh Hiep / Tuoi Tre
He was particularly moved by the photograph ‘Childhood,’ depicting a father holding his child while watching kites fly.
He said the image resonates deeply with him, as kite flying is also one of his own children’s favorite activities.
French photographer Adrien Jean in Ho Chi Minh City, April 22, 2026. Photo: Thanh Hiep / Tuoi Tre
Adrien Jean, who has lived in Ho Chi Minh City for around 11 years, described the Vietnamese city as “always alive with something happening on every corner,” inspiring him to document its vibrancy.
He emphasized the exhibition’s focus on shared connections rather than differences, saying that people everywhere share similar dreams and aspirations.
The exhibition also reflects the long-standing partnership between Lyon and Ho Chi Minh City, which has developed through various cultural and urban initiatives.
These include collaborations between the Confluences Museum in Lyon and museums in Ho Chi Minh City, as well as lighting projects for architectural landmarks supported by Lyon authorities.
Economic cooperation has also grown, with several Lyon-based businesses operating in Ho Chi Minh City and contributing to local development.
Both cities continue to face challenges such as climate change and sustainable urban development, and are working together to find innovative solutions.
Ho Chi Minh City delegates and French consular staff observe photo displays celebrating daily life in Ho Chi Minh City and Lyon, April 22, 2026. Photo: Thanh Hiep / Tuoi Tre
Below are some photo works depicting shared urban moments in Ho Chi Minh City and Lyon:
‘Riverside.’ Photo: Courtesy of French Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City
‘Vendors.’ Photo: Courtesy of French Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City
‘Pets.’ Photo: Courtesy of French Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City
‘Terrace.’ Photo: Courtesy of French Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City
‘Urban Sports.’ Photo: Courtesy of French Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City
‘Childhood.’ Photo: Courtesy of French Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City
