France names garden after late King Norodom Sihanouk in Fère-en-Tardenois

FÈRE-EN-TARDENOIS,Jan.09,2026 (KPT) — A garden in the northern French town of Fère-en-Tardenois has been officially named the “Norodom Sihanouk Garden” to commemorate the late Cambodian king and his role in the country’s peace process.

The town in the Aisne province is historically significant as the site of the first meeting in 1987 between King Norodom Sihanouk and then-Prime Minister Hun Sen. That meeting marked the beginning of Cambodia’s path toward national reconciliation, culminating in the Paris Peace Agreements in 1991.

The inauguration ceremony took place Jan. 8 and was presided over by Princess Norodom Arunrasmy, senior adviser to the king and a member of the Cambodian Senate. She represented the Cambodian monarchy at the event.

In a statement, the Cambodian Embassy in France said the naming of the garden “honors the memory of His Majesty the Late King Norodom Sihanouk and recognizes the historical friendship between Cambodia and the commune of Fère-en-Tardenois.”

The embassy described the event as a symbol of respect for Cambodia’s peace efforts and a reminder of the nation’s journey toward stability and reconciliation following decades of conflict.

King Norodom Sihanouk (1922–2012) was a central figure in Cambodia’s modern history, serving as head of state, prime minister and king at various points.

He played a crucial role in Cambodia’s independence from France in 1953 and later in the country’s peace and reconciliation processes during periods of conflict.

Cambodia and France share deep historical ties dating back to the French Protectorate era (1863–1953). The two countries maintain strong diplomatic, cultural and educational relations, with France hosting Cambodian students, cultural events and historical commemorations.

The naming of the “Norodom Sihanouk Garden” reflects both the historical links and ongoing friendship between Cambodia and France, as well as recognition of Cambodia’s efforts toward peace and national reconciliation.