PM Hun Manet’s visit to France strengthens bilateral ties

PHNOM PENH, April 10, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodian Prime Samdech Thipadei Minister Hun Manet has concluded a working visit to France, achieving what officials described as fruitful outcomes and further strengthening longstanding ties between the two countries.

At the invitation of President Emmanuel Macron, Hun Manet visited France from April 6 to 8. The two leaders met at the Élysée Palace on April 8, holding what the Cambodian foreign ministry called cordial and constructive discussions that reflected deep mutual trust and friendship.

Samdech Thipadei congratulated Macron on the successful organisation of the “One Health Summit” and expressed appreciation for the hospitality extended to his delegation.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to elevating relations to a strategic partnership in the near future, highlighting cooperation in trade, investment, defence, education, public health, agriculture, renewable energy, cultural heritage preservation, and people-to-people exchanges.

Officials said the leaders welcomed growing economic ties, marked by rising trade and tourism flows, and noted expanding collaboration in emerging areas such as artificial intelligence, data science, energy, and waste management.

Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet also expressed gratitude for France’s contributions to Cambodia’s socio-economic development, particularly through the French Development Agency.

Macron reaffirmed support for Cambodia’s hosting of the upcoming Francophonie Summit and praised the growing presence of French enterprises, including Vinci Group and TotalEnergies, in Cambodia’s sustainable development.

Both leaders underscored their commitment to multilateralism, peaceful dispute resolution, and respect for international law. The visit was described as a milestone in Cambodia–France relations, paving the way for deeper cooperation and shared prosperity.