The year 2026 marks a historic milestone for Cambodia as the Kingdom prepares to host the 20th Francophonie Summit for the first time, underscoring its growing role within the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF).
The summit is scheduled to take place in mid-November 2026 in Siem Reap province, bringing together heads of state and government from Francophonie member countries. It will be only the second time the prestigious event is held in Asia, following the Hanoi Summit in 1997, which convened more than 90 international delegations.
As preparations get underway, Phnom Penh and Siem Reap are already embracing a vibrant blend of Khmer pride and Francophone spirit. Beyond a high-level diplomatic gathering, the summit is being viewed as a symbolic homecoming for Cambodia, a nation with deep historical ties to the Francophonie.
The 2026 Francophonie Summit also carries strong symbolic significance as a tribute to His Majesty the late King Father Samdech Preah Norodom Sihanouk, one of the founding fathers of multilateral Francophonie.
While the main diplomatic events will take place against the iconic backdrop of Siem Reap, Cambodia is planning a year-long nationwide celebration of the French language, culture, and innovation. Key activities include the Village Francophone, a cultural hub showcasing traditions, cuisine, and arts from the world’s 343 million French speakers, and FrancoTech, which will highlight the role of the French language in scientific advancement and digital cooperation.
Education will also be a central focus of the summit. Currently, more than 22,000 students in Cambodia are learning French, and the event is expected to further strengthen the language’s role in expanding academic and professional opportunities for the younger generation.
The Francophonie Summit is the highest decision-making authority within the Francophonie framework. Held every two years, it brings together leaders from all member states to discuss cooperation, cultural exchange, and shared values.
The Francophonie was officially established on Mar. 20, 1970. Cambodia first joined as an observer at the 4th Francophonie Summit in Chaillot, Paris, in November 1991, and became a full member at the 5th Summit in Grand-Baie, Mauritius, in October 1993.
Today, the International Organisation of La Francophonie comprises 93 member states, including 56 full members, five associate members, and 32 observers.
The upcoming summit is widely seen as a prestigious opportunity for Cambodia to showcase its rich cultural heritage, diplomatic engagement, and commitment to the values of Francophonie on the global stage.
His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni (L), OIF Secretary General H.E. Ms. Louise Mushikiwabo (C), and French President H.E. Emmanuel Macron
