(Phnom Penh): Jean-François Tain, Minister Delegate Attached to the Prime Minister in charge of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, announced that Cambodia anticipates a historic state visit from French President Emmanuel Macron in November 2026. This visit coincides with Cambodia's hosting of the 20th Francophonie Summit.

Jean-François Tain spoke on Thursday (Apr. 9) during a press conference on the outcomes of Prime Minister Hun Manet's participation in the One Health Summit and his working visit to France.

"President Emmanuel Macron's upcoming state visit to Cambodia will be significant because, in the long history of diplomatic relations between Cambodia and France, only one French president, General Charles de Gaulle, previously undertook a state visit to Cambodia in 1966, during which he delivered a notable speech in French in Phnom Penh."

The confirmation came following a meeting between President Macron and Prime Minister Hun Manet at the Élysée Palace on 8 April 2026. Macron is expected to attend the Francophonie Summit as part of his official visit.

The French president underlined that this visit presents an additional opportunity to reinforce the longstanding friendship between the two nations.

President Macron emphasised the deep historical ties between Cambodia and France, which continue to strengthen across sectors such as energy, healthcare, and cultural heritage. He also expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Hun Manet for attending the One Health Summit in Lyon on 7 April and for the continued discussions held in Paris.

The Francophonie Summit follows the 2024 Francophonie gathering in Villers-Cotterêts and continues collaboration under the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie (OIF).

Scheduled for November in Phnom Penh, the 20th Francophonie Summit will bring together leaders from nearly 90 countries, offering Cambodia a platform to boost tourism and attract investment from French-speaking nations.
=FRESH NEWS