AKP Phnom Penh, October 13, 2026 -- Cambodia is stepping up preparations to welcome international delegations to the 20th Francophonie Summit, scheduled for November 2026 in Phnom Penh, where the Kingdom will serve as both host and chair. The summit is expected to bring together heads of state and government and delegations from approximately 90 countries.

As of September, preparations had reached key stages across various sectors. Under the leadership of the Royal Government, a national organising commission has been established to coordinate the arrangements, with close cooperation from the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF) and technical support from France.

The summit will be held under the theme “Reinvest in Peace for Shared Prosperity and Lasting Stability,” reflecting Cambodia’s experience in peacebuilding and its commitment to multilateral cooperation.

On Sept. 21, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation H.E. Prak Sokhonn chaired the seventh meeting of the National Francophonie Commission to review preparations for the summit, the 48th Ministerial Conference of La Francophonie (CMF), scheduled for Nov. 14-16, and related events.

H.E. Prak Sokhonn said that less than two months remained to complete preparations and ensure the success of the events. He noted that relevant sub-commissions had made steady progress through close coordination and clear work plans.

On Sept. 25 in New York, H.E. Prak Sokhonn also met with OIF Secretary-General Ms. Louise Mushikiwabo on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly to discuss preparations. Ms. Mushikiwabo expressed her appreciation for the progress made by Cambodia.

Cultural Showcase and Economic Opportunities

Two major accompanying events – the Francophonie Village and FrancoTech 2026 – will be held from Nov. 13 to 17 at the Wat Botum Park area and Koh Pich, respectively.

The five-day Francophonie Village will showcase Cambodian and international culture through national pavilions, exhibitions, artistic performances, and discussions on tourism, education, youth, gender equality, peace and cultural heritage preservation.

Minister of Tourism H.E. Huot Hak described the event as an opportunity to present Cambodia’s hospitality and potential to the world, including through cultural and commercial exhibitions and a food village for visitors from the Francophone community.

Minister of Culture and Fine Arts H.E. Dr. Phoeurng Sackona said the summit would provide a historic opportunity to highlight the richness of Khmer civilisation and the creativity of contemporary Cambodian arts. Alongside traditional art forms, the programme will feature diverse artistic expressions reflecting links between Khmer, French and Francophone cultures.

Meanwhile, FrancoTech 2026, scheduled for Nov. 14-16 at the Koh Pich Convention and Exhibition Centre, will promote economic cooperation and digital innovation between Cambodia and French-speaking countries.

Organised by relevant Cambodian ministries and institutions in cooperation with the Alliance des Patronats Francophones, the three-day event is expected to attract more than 5,000 participants and feature over 110 exhibition booths, including national pavilions.

The summit’s economic and trade forum, organised by the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce in cooperation with Francophone business organisations, is expected to bring together more than 3,000 business leaders, investors and decision-makers to explore new markets and strengthen economic links between the Francophone community and ASEAN.

Minister of Posts and Telecommunications H.E. Chea Vandeth said FrancoTech would offer Cambodia an opportunity to showcase its technology ecosystem and digital start-ups. The ministry is supporting preparations for the technological and telecommunications infrastructure needed to ensure the event runs smoothly.

Logistics, Hospitality and Security

Cambodia has also prepared arrangements for the reception and transport of visiting leaders, delegates and journalists. At Techo International Airport, a Francophonie Fast Track service is being prepared to facilitate visa procedures and the reception of delegations. Phnom Penh authorities have also planned priority routes for official vehicles to reduce traffic congestion and improve travel between hotels and event venues.

The Ministry of Tourism has coordinated with five-star hotels to provide comfortable accommodation and diverse food services. Nearly 1,000 volunteers and French-speaking tour guides have been trained and deployed to assist international visitors.

Security and emergency response plans are also being prepared, including the deployment of security forces at strategic locations and the use of advanced technologies such as AI-enabled CCTV cameras and anti-drone systems. The Ministry of Health has reserved emergency wards at major hospitals for visiting dignitaries.

To facilitate access to information, the National Francophonie Commission has launched the official website, www.francophonie2026.gov.kh, in Khmer, French and English. It provides programme schedules, media accreditation services and information on Cambodian tourist destinations.

Strengthening Cambodia’s International Engagement

Hosting the 20th Francophonie Summit offers Cambodia an opportunity to deepen diplomatic, economic and cultural ties with the Francophone community, including countries in Europe and Africa.

Beyond welcoming international delegates, the Kingdom aims to showcase its cultural heritage, technological development and hospitality while advancing dialogue on peace, shared prosperity and long-term stability.

The summit is expected to mark an important milestone in Cambodia’s international engagement, demonstrating its capacity to host a major international gathering and strengthen cooperation with the wider Francophone community.

By C. Nika