French Ambassador Likens Cambodia–France Bond To ‘Old Couple’ Enduring Hardship

PHNOM PENH, July 15, 2026 (KPT) – French Ambassador Olivier Richard said Tuesday that Cambodia and France are entering “a new chapter” in their decades‑old friendship, as Paris prepares for President Emmanuel Macron’s state visit later this year.

Speaking at France’s Bastille Day reception in Phnom Penh, Richard described the planned November trip as a rare chance to redefine cooperation, noting Cambodia’s role as host of the 20th Francophonie Summit.

“It is thrilling to know that we have the opportunity here to write a new chapter in the history of the French language and in the history of our bilateral relations,” he said.

Richard recalled that only two French presidents have previously visited Cambodia – Charles de Gaulle in 1966 and François Mitterrand in 1993 – making Macron’s visit significant.

He said both governments were working to ensure concrete progress in education, research, investment, trade, defence, heritage and cultural ties.

The envoy described Cambodia as the most French‑speaking country in Asia and praised the French community’s role in strengthening people‑to‑people links.

He likened the bilateral relationship to “an old couple” that had endured both hardship and prosperity but remained close.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn echoed the remarks, calling Macron’s visit a historic milestone that could elevate ties to a strategic partnership.

He said cooperation had expanded steadily in agriculture, energy, infrastructure, healthcare, education, defence and cultural heritage, while both governments continued to support multilateralism and international law.

Macron is expected in Phnom Penh in November, when leaders from across the French‑speaking world will gather for the Francophonie Summit.