Cambodia and France pledge deeper strategic partnership during Paris talks

PHNOM PENH, Mar. 4 (KPT) – Cambodia and France have agreed to intensify cooperation across defence, technology and cultural heritage following high-level talks in Paris. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn met France’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Jean-Noël Barrot, on February 25 during a working visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties.

Both sides reaffirmed their intention to elevate relations, describing the partnership as long-standing and multifaceted. Talks focused on expanding collaboration in defence, renewable energy, agriculture, healthcare, digital innovation and infrastructure.

Officials said greater involvement from private companies in both countries would be key to delivering large-scale projects in the coming years.

Cultural cooperation featured prominently, with the ministers welcoming the scheduled completion in November 2026 of restoration work on the Western Mebon temple at Angkor – a flagship symbol of Franco-Cambodian heritage preservation.

Preparations are also under way for the 20th Summit of La Francophonie, which Cambodia will host in Phnom Penh in November 2026. France currently holds the presidency, and a French ministerial delegate is expected to visit Cambodia to coordinate arrangements.

Barrot praised Cambodia’s recent efforts to combat online scams and confirmed Cambodian leaders would be invited to the 9th World Congress Against the Death Penalty in Paris in July.

He noted Cambodia is among the countries that have abolished capital punishment.
Regional security was another key topic, including Cambodia’s ongoing border dispute with Thailand.

Sokhonn expressed appreciation for France’s support, particularly its assistance in providing historical archives and cartographic materials relevant to border delimitation.

Reaffirming Cambodia’s position, he said disputes should be resolved peacefully and in accordance with international law, while ensuring stability and the safe return of affected residents.

France signalled readiness to back diplomatic initiatives toward a lawful settlement.
The visit underscored the deep historical links between the two countries and signalled a renewed push to translate diplomatic goodwill into tangible cooperation across strategic sectors.