Phnom Penh: On July 20, 2026, Cambodia and France are set to enter a new chapter in their long-standing friendship as both countries prepare for the historic state visit of French President H.E. Emmanuel Macron to the Kingdom in November 2026, a visit expected to pave the way for elevating bilateral relations to a strategic partnership.
Speaking on behalf of the Royal Government of Cambodia at the Bastille Day reception hosted by the Embassy of France in Phnom Penh, H.E. PRAK Sokhonn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, extended warm congratulations to the government and people of France and to the French community living in Cambodia on the occasion of France’s National Day.
“On behalf of the Royal Government, I would like to extend our warmest congratulations to the government and people of France, as well as to the entire French community residing in Cambodia, accompanied by our most sincere wishes for happiness, prosperity and success,” H.E. PRAK Sokhonn said.
He described 2026 as a landmark year in Cambodia–France relations, noting that Cambodia will have the honour of welcoming President Emmanuel Macron on a state visit in November, 60 years after the historic visit of General Charles de Gaulle and more than 30 years after President François Mitterrand‘s visit.
According to H.E. PRAK Sokhonn, the upcoming presidential visit represents a historic opportunity to deepen bilateral cooperation and give decisive momentum to the shared ambition of elevating Cambodia–France relations to the level of a strategic partnership.
“The friendship between Cambodia and France draws its strength from a rich history, mutual trust and a constant desire to build the future together,” he said.
The Deputy Prime Minister highlighted the strong political dialogue between the two countries, underpinned by regular exchanges between their highest leaders. He cited recent visits to France by His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni; Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, President of the Senate; and Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, who participated in the “One Health” summit in Paris in April 2026.
“In a global context marked by profound changes, growing uncertainties and persistent tensions, we share the same conviction: dialogue, multilateralism and respect for international law are the best foundations for lasting peace, stability and shared prosperity,” he said.
H.E. PRAK Sokhonn also highlighted another major milestone for Cambodia this year: the hosting of the 20th Francophonie Summit, which will bring together the 90 member states and governments of La Francophonie under the theme “Reinvesting in Peace for Shared Prosperity”. He said the summit reflects the collective commitment of the Francophone community to promoting peace, sustainable development, cultural diversity, solidarity, and cooperation among nations.
Preparations for the summit have been underway for more than a year and are progressing smoothly. Beyond the official meetings, Phnom Penh will host a series of economic, cultural, and artistic events that will showcase Cambodia’s heritage, hospitality, and growing international role. In his remarks, H.E. PRAK Sokhonn reaffirmed that France continues to be both a source of inspiration through its universal ideals and a trusted partner supporting Cambodia’s development.
French Ambassador to Cambodia Olivier Richard described 2026 as a historic year for Cambodia-France relations, highlighting the Kingdom’s hosting of the 20th Francophonie Summit and the upcoming state visit of French President Emmanuel Macron as defining milestones that will usher in a new era of bilateral cooperation.
The ambassador emphasised “Cambodia’s important role within the Francophone community, noting that it is the leading French-speaking country in Asia. He said the return of the Francophonie Summit to Asia after 29 years offers an opportunity to showcase Cambodia’s culture, hospitality, and heritage to the international Francophone community.”
He also stressed the historic significance of President Macron‘s visit, describing it as an opportunity to deepen political dialogue and expand cooperation across key sectors, including the French language, higher education, scientific research, trade, investment, development assistance, defence, cultural heritage, and the arts. Reflecting on more than three decades of cooperation since the Paris Peace Accords, Ambassador Richard praised the achievements made by both countries and reaffirmed France’s commitment to supporting Cambodia’s continued development and international engagement.
The ambassador expressed gratitude to the Royal Government of Cambodia, the French community, French-Cambodians, development partners, and all organisations contributing to the success of the upcoming presidential visit and the Francophonie Summit.
Concluding his remarks, Ambassador Richard said that “despite global uncertainties, the longstanding friendship between France and Cambodia remains strong and resilient. He expressed confidence that President Macron’s visit in November would mark the beginning of a new chapter in bilateral relations and lay the foundation for decades of closer cooperation between the two nations.”
Photo by: Supplied
