Support for Cambodia to host Francophonie Summit in 2026
Cambodia has received support in its efforts to host the Francophonie Summit in 2026 in the historic city of Siem Reap.
Initial support was given during the meeting between His Majesty Preah Bat Samdech Preah Boromneath Norodom Sihamoni, King of Cambodia and the French President H.E. Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Presidential Palace in Paris on Nov. 13, 2023.
This has now been followed by words of encouragement from Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia, at the opening ceremony of France-Cambodia Business Forum in Phnom Penh earlier this week.
At the forum he stated “The summit is an opportunity to showcase our country’s achievements, promote our cultural and linguistic diversity, and strengthen ties with other Francophone countries”.
The Premier added that the final decision on Cambodia’s candidacy would be made in October of this year. If this were to take place, Siem Reap would be the desired city.
Angkor Wat of Siem Reap was just voted the 2nd best tourist attraction in Asia
What is the Francophonie Summit?
The Organisation internationale de la Francophonie (OIF; sometimes shortened to the Francophonie,also known as the International Organisation of La Francophonie in English is an international organization representing countries and regions where French is either spoken fluently, or at least as a Lingua Franca.
In actuality though, as is the case with Cambodia, countries where few people speak French, but there is at least a colonial legacy are also members, such as Vietnam. In tis respects it is somewhat similar to the British Commonwealth.
What does hosting entail?
Hosting the biannual event is somewhat similar to hosting a major sporting event, such as the SEA Games in that it involves numerous events, hosting official delegates, alongside the prestige that this brings.
The annual summit, which will be held in France this year is usually attended by either the head of state, or high level members of government from member states.
And with the organization comprising 88 members and governments; it is also potentially big draw for journalists and tourists alike.
It has been reported that the French Senate, the Parliamentary Assembly of La Francophonie (APF) and the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF) have also voiced support for Cambodia hosting the event.
Author: Gareth Johnson
Gareth Johnson is the founder of Young Pioneer Tours and has visited over 180+ countries. His passion is opening obscure destinations to tourism and sharing his experience of street food.
