HÀ NỘI — Visiting French President Francois Hollande has suggested Hà Nội authorities step up the conservation of the Old Quarter for future generations. 
Taking a stroll from Mã Mây Street to Hàng Bạc Street in the Old Quarter yesterday, the President received a warm welcome from Hanoians and tourists. 
He was introduced to the history of the Old Quarter which was associated with the formation and development of Thăng Long–Hà Nội, with traditional handicraft and trade guilds as unique features. 
Officials from the management board of the Old Quarter reiterated the determination of municipal authorities and Vietnamese Government to preserve the quarter’s distinctive architecture and culture. 
They also revealed the co-operation programmes between Hà Nội and Toulouse city in upgrading an ancient house in Mã Mây street and other facilities in the quarter. 
President Hollande showed his interest in the conservation of the Old Quarter in the context of it having a high population density. 
He was told that the issue is also challenging Hà Nội authorities as it requires no change to social structure of the quarter. 
The President also visited Kim Ngân temple which was upgraded in 2010 and serves as a place to observe local cultural and spiritual activities. 
Earlier, he met with Vietnamese students who studied in France. 
He met with Vietnamese leaders to seek to step up the ties between the two countries during his State visit to Việt Nam from September 5-7. 
Hà Nội’s Old Quarter, boasting a total area of 81 hectares, is located on ten wards of Hoàn Kiếm district: Hàng Bạc, Hàng Buồm, Hàng Bồ, Hàng Bông, Hàng Mã, Cửa Đông, Lý Thái Tổ, Đồng Xuân, Hàng Gai, and Hàng Đào. — VNS