Phnom penh: France is working closely with Cambodia to ensure the successful hosting of the 20th Francophonie Summit in Phnom Penh this November, according to French Ambassador to Cambodia H.E. Olivier Richard.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the Ambassador stated in an interview via Telegram on Mar. 25 that both French and Cambodian officials are actively coordinating preparations for the major international event. 'As the current President of La Francophonie, and as a close friend of Cambodia, France is providing technical support by sharing its recent experience in hosting the summit, including on political negotiations and organisational aspects,' he said.
He further noted that working groups from both countries have been engaged in in-depth discussions for several months, focusing particularly on Francophonie affairs and protocol arrangements. Beyond the summit, Ambassador Richard emphasized the French language as a key pillar of bilateral relations. France continues to support French-language education in Cambodia across priority sectors, including law, economics, medicine, engineering, military cooperation, and cultural and creative industries.
This cooperation, he noted, is also carried out through multilateral frameworks, in partnership with the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF) and the Agence Universitaire de la Francophonie (AUF). Earlier this month, Cambodia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation confirmed that the 20th Francophonie Summit will be held in Phnom Penh from Nov. 15 to 16, 2026.
The Ambassador highlighted that the recent visit by OIF Secretary-General H.E. Ms. Louise Mushikiwabo reflects Cambodia's strong commitment to ensuring the summit's success. He also expressed hope that the event will create new opportunities for partnerships between Cambodia and the global Francophone community, which comprises around 396 million speakers worldwide. 'We firmly believe Cambodia will seize this unique opportunity to further promote the French language in Asia,' he emphasised.
Founded in 1970, La Francophonie promotes the French language and fosters political, educational, economic, and cultural cooperation among its 90 member states and governments, including 53 members, 5 associate members, and 32 observers.