AKP Phnom Penh, November 21, 2025 -- Preparations for Cambodia’s hosting of the 20th Francophonie Summit in 2026 are accelerating following a high-level ministerial meeting to advance the planning of the "Village Francophone," a major cultural and economic side event.

The meeting, held on Nov. 20 at the Ministry of Tourism, convened three key members of the National Organising Committee for Francophonie Summit (NOCFS):

H.E. Dr. Ing Kantha Phavi, Minister of Women’s Affairs, who serves as Deputy Chair of the NOCFS and Chair of Sub-Commission 5 on Side Events; H.E. Dr. Phoeurng Sackona, Minister of Culture and Fine Arts and Deputy Chair of the NOCFS; H.E. Huot Hak, Minister of Tourism, Deputy Chair of the NOCFS, and Co-Chair of the Working Group for the Village Francophone Side Event.

Discussions centred on the core logistical and operational aspects of the Village Francophone, including venue selection, strategic planning, detailed logistical preparations, and the final implementation framework. The event is designed to be a prominent platform showcasing the diverse cultures, economies, and enterprises of the French-speaking world.

The Francophonie Summit is the highest-level gathering of the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF), bringing together Heads of State and Government from its member countries. The biennial meeting provides a critical forum for global dialogue across political and economic issues, human rights, education, culture, democracy, and Francophonie cooperation.

In addition to the main Summit, Cambodia will host two flagship side events: the Village Francophone and FrancoTech. These events are expected to attract participation from more than 90 OIF member states and governments, alongside significant national and international media coverage.

By K. Rithy Reak