Cambodia, France discuss Francophonie Summit and border issues in Paris meeting

Paris, France, 26 February 2026 (KPT) – Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn met his French counterpart Jean-Noël Barrot in Paris on February 25 to discuss preparations for the upcoming Francophonie Summit and recent developments along the Cambodia–Thailand border.

The two ministers exchanged greetings following their December 2025 phone call. Prak Sokhonn reaffirmed Phnom Penh’s readiness to host the Francophonie Summit later this year. On border issues, he expressed gratitude for France’s support in promoting peaceful resolution in line with international law.

Earlier this month, Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet appealed to President Emmanuel Macron for assistance in clarifying Cambodia’s frontier with Thailand, requesting access to historical and technical documents from the Protectorate era.

In a February 4 letter, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet thanked France for its role in maintaining calm along the border and underscored Cambodia’s commitment to resolving disputes without the use of force.

He asked Paris to provide technical expertise, advisory support and archival materials to help secure a lasting settlement.

Officials said the move reflects Cambodia ’s determination to ensure peaceful coexistence between Cambodian and Thai communities.

France has repeatedly urged both sides to pursue dialogue. On January 1, the French foreign ministry welcomed measures taken after a cease-fire agreed late last December, calling it progress in reducing tensions.

Paris stressed the need for continued talks to implement commitments under the Kuala Lumpur Declaration of October 26, including mine clearance, the return of displaced civilians and efforts to dismantle online scam centers.

France pledged to continue working with Cambodia, Thailand and ASEAN to support initiatives aimed at achieving lasting peace in the region.