Cambodia Prepares Francophone Village to Showcase Culture, Tourism and Business Opportunities to the World

PHNOM PENH, June 12, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia is stepping up preparations for the Village Francophone, a major side event of the 20th Francophonie Summit, aimed at showcasing the Kingdom’s culture, tourism potential and business opportunities to a global audience, officials said Thursday.

Tourism Minister Huot Hak and Women’s Affairs Minister Ing Kantha Phavi reviewed the plans during a meeting with government officials, ambassadors from Francophone countries, development partners, chambers of commerce and private‑sector representatives.

Hak described 2026 as a historic year for Cambodia as host of the Francophonie Summit, saying the Village Francophone will promote the message that “The Cambodian Smile is the Francophonie Smile” while highlighting hospitality, cultural heritage and economic potential.

Scheduled for November 13–17 at Wat Botum Park in Phnom Penh, the event is expected to attract more than 100,000 visitors. It will feature national pavilions, cultural performances, seminars, a gastronomic village, a Cambodian products exhibition area and a media lounge.

Officials said the gathering will provide a platform for over 90 member countries of the International Organisation of La Francophonie to showcase their cultures, traditions, products and services.

They added that the event will strengthen Cambodia’s international profile, promote tourism and local products, and demonstrate the Kingdom’s capacity to host major global events.