French Ambassador and Phnom Penh Governor Discuss Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation

On the afternoon of July 23, 2026, Olivier Richard, Ambassador of the French Republic to the Kingdom of Cambodia, paid a courtesy call and held a working meeting with Khuong Sreng, Governor of Phnom Penh, at the Phnom Penh City Hall, to strengthen bilateral cooperation between the two countries. During the meeting, Ambassador Richard stated that the upcoming meeting between French President Emmanuel Macron and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet in November 2026 will contribute to strengthening bilateral cooperation, as Cambodia is developing in all sectors. He also noted the significant changes and modernization of Phnom Penh compared to 30 years ago, acknowledging France's substantial assistance to Cambodia in areas such as clean water and electricity. Ambassador Richard further added that France will continue to cooperate with the Phnom Penh administration, particularly through the French Development Agency (AFD), on the issue of wastewater management in the northern part of Phnom Penh. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is expected to be signed before the state visit of the French President. In response, Governor Khuong Sreng briefed the Ambassador on the general situation and the development of Phnom Penh across all sectors in recent years. He expressed gratitude for France's past support, including in clean water, electricity, infrastructure, and notably for bringing peace to Cambodia through the Paris Peace Accords. The Governor also affirmed that the Phnom Penh administration is fully prepared to ensure the security and safety for the upcoming Francophonie Summit and the visit of the French President in November 2026. This meeting underscored the long-standing cooperation between France and Cambodia, particularly France's contributions to infrastructure development and peacebuilding. It also signals potential for further advancement in bilateral relations through upcoming high-level exchanges.