Cambodia Hosts Global Francophone Central Banking Summit on Central Bank Independence

PHNOM PENH, May 29, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia is hosting the 28th Conference of Governors of Francophone Central Banks, bringing together global monetary leaders to debate central bank independence amid rising economic uncertainty and public expectations, officials said Thursday.

Organized by the National Bank of Cambodia in partnership with the Banque de France, the summit runs from May 28–31 in Phnom Penh under the theme “Central Bank Independence in the Face of State and Public Expectations.”

The event is chaired by Dr. Chea Serey and features participation from 26 central bank governors representing Francophone countries across Europe, Africa, Asia, the Americas, the Middle East and the Pacific. Keynote speakers include François Villeroy de Galhau and Christine Lagarde, underscoring the high‑level significance of the gathering.

Discussions focus on the evolving role and autonomy of central banks as governments and the public place increasing demands on monetary authorities in a shifting global environment.

This marks the third time Cambodia has hosted the conference, following editions in 1996 and 2011, highlighting its growing role in international financial dialogue.

Established in 1994 by the Banque de France, the annual summit serves as a platform for cooperation and exchange on economic, monetary and financial issues among French‑speaking central banks worldwide.