French President's Visit to Cambodia to Usher in New Era of Cooperation

Olivier Richard, the French Ambassador to the Kingdom of Cambodia, stated that the meeting between French President Emmanuel Macron and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, scheduled for November 2026, will usher in a new chapter for Cambodia-France cooperation. He highlighted Cambodia's significant development across all sectors. Ambassador Richard made these remarks on the afternoon of July 23 during a courtesy call and working meeting with Khuong Sreng, the Governor of Phnom Penh, at the Phnom Penh City Hall. The Ambassador noted the stark contrast between Phnom Penh 30 years ago and its current modern and developed state, emphasizing the significant transformation. He further stated that France has provided substantial assistance to Cambodia in various sectors, including clean water and electricity. Ambassador Richard affirmed France's continued commitment to collaborating with the Phnom Penh City Hall, particularly through the French Development Agency (AFD). Discussions are underway regarding wastewater treatment in the northern part of Phnom Penh. Although a formal contract has not yet been signed, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is expected to be concluded before President Macron's state visit to Cambodia in November 2026. In response, Governor Khuong Sreng briefed the Ambassador on the general situation and the progress of Phnom Penh across all sectors in recent years. He expressed gratitude for France's significant contributions to Phnom Penh over the past 30 years in areas such as clean water, electricity, and other infrastructure development. He also acknowledged France's crucial role in bringing peace to Cambodia through the Paris Peace Talks. Governor Sreng also informed the Ambassador that the Phnom Penh City Hall is fully prepared regarding security and safety measures for the upcoming Francophonie Summit, particularly for the visit of French President Emmanuel Macron in November 2026.