In this elevated capacity, Samdech Hun Sen presided over the official welcoming ceremony at the Royal Palace for Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith, who arrived in the capital Friday for a high-profile two-day State Visit.

A Pillar of Regional Stability The visit by President Sisoulith, who also serves as the General Secretary of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party, underscores the “Comprehensive and Long-Lasting Strategic Partnership” between Cambodia and Laos.

Despite the King’s absence from the ceremony, the reception was a display of national unity and regional cooperation. Under the leadership of Samdech Hun Sen and Prime Minister Hun Manet, the Royal Government continues to demonstrate its ability to maintain seamless diplomatic operations during critical moments.

Key Highlights of the State Visit (Feb 6–7):

• Trilateral Diplomacy: President Sisoulith is scheduled to join a historic trilateral meeting between the heads of the ruling parties of Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam, focusing on regional security and economic corridors.
• Cultural Ties: The Lao President will pay his respects at the Independence Monument and the Royal Memorial of the late King-Father Norodom Sihanouk.
• Economic Cooperation: Discussions will focus on energy exchange, border trade facilitation, and the shared 2026 goal of a “connected ASEAN.”

The Royal Palace has assured the public that the King’s health is being closely monitored and that his delegation of duties to Samdech Hun Sen ensures that the nation’s international commitments proceed without interruption.

FAQ: Samdech Hun Sen Acting Head of State 2026

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Summit Highlights: Tradition Meets Modernity

While the primary diplomatic talks will be held in the shadows of Angkor Wat, the 2026 celebrations are designed to engage the entire nation.

• Village Francophone: A sprawling cultural hub in Siem Reap showcasing the food, music, and art of 343 million French speakers across five continents.
• FrancoTech: A high-level forum focused on scientific advancement and digital cooperation, highlighting how the French language serves as a bridge for tech innovation in the Asia-Pacific.
• Educational Legacy: With 22,000+ students currently enrolled in French programs in Cambodia, the summit aims to solidify French as a “career language” for tourism, diplomacy, and international law.

A Royal Homecoming

The summit carries immense emotional weight for the Royal Family and the Cambodian people. King Norodom Sihamoni officially accepted the hosting duties in Paris, stating, “In 2026, the Khmer smile will be the smile of the Francophonie.” This reflects Cambodia’s unique role as a bridge between Southeast Asian traditions and the Francophone world’s shared values of peace and solidarity.

The 2026 Tourism Pivot

For the tourism sector, the Francophonie Summit is the “booster shot” Siem Reap needs. Following the Visit Siem Reap 2024 campaign, the 2026 Summit will provide a sustained international platform. For investors, the FrancoTech exhibition is the one to watch—it’s where the “Diamond Hexagon” cooperation meets French technological expertise in water treatment and renewable energy.

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The King spent time at the bedsides of these brave men, offering his deepest sympathy and words of encouragement. His visit was a heartfelt thank-you to the soldiers who risked their lives to protect Cambodia’s borders during the intense armed conflict that took place from December 7 to 27, 2025.

Royal Support in Difficult Times

The King and the Queen Mother have remained deeply involved in supporting those affected by the border tensions since they began in May 2025. Their Majesties have not only followed the situation closely but have also:

• Provided financial aid to soldiers on the front lines.
• Donated funds to help the thousands of civilians who were forced to leave their homes during the fighting.

A Nation Moving Toward Peace

The conflict, which involved disputes over border markings and territory, resulted in a ceasefire on December 27, 2025. Now that the fighting has stopped, the King’s visit serves as a powerful reminder of the nation’s unity. By visiting the hospital, His Majesty showed that the sacrifices made by the armed forces are recognized and honored at the highest level of the Kingdom.

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These brave soldiers recently returned to Cambodia after being held in Thailand for 155 days.

Praising Our National Heroes

During the meeting, the King and Queen Mother expressed how happy they were to see the soldiers back on home soil. The King praised the men for their bravery and hard work in protecting Cambodia’s borders. He noted that their courage and sacrifices are a great example for the entire Cambodian military and the nation.

Generous Support for the Soldiers and Their Families

To show their appreciation and to help the soldiers restart their lives, the Royal Family provided them with very generous gifts and financial support:

• For Every Soldier: Each of the 18 men received a gift pack containing essentials like a mosquito net, blanket, Krama, and Sarong. Additionally, each soldier received 20 million Riels (about $5,000).
• Extra Help for Life Milestones:
  • Wedding Support: One soldier who is planning to get married soon received an extra 20 million Riels.
  • New Baby Support: Two soldiers whose wives are currently pregnant received an extra 5 million Riels each to help with the costs of their new babies.

A Strong Bond of Peace

This kind gesture on New Year’s Day shows the deep love the King and Queen Mother have for those who defend the country. It brings a sense of pride and hope to all Cambodians as we start the new year together in peace.

READ MORE: 18 Cambodian Soldiers Reunited with Families After 155 Days

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PHNOM PENH, Cambodia – His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni, the revered Monarch of the Kingdom of Cambodia, graciously provided a Royal Donation of US$100,000 (One Hundred Thousand US Dollars). This supreme contribution was granted to Samdech Kittiprittbandit Bun Rany Hun Sen, President of the Cambodian Red Cross (CRC).

The Monarch specifically designated the noble royal fund to assist refugees and displaced citizens who are currently suffering severe hardships due to the aggression along the Cambodia-Thailand Border.

I. Official Presentation of the Royal Grant

Transfer of Funds to the Cambodian Red Cross

Samdech Mohamontei Kuy Sophal, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Royal Palace, acting as the High Royal Representative of His Majesty the King, formally presented the royal funds.

The grant was received by H.E. Dr. Ouk Maly, Treasurer-General of the Cambodian Red Cross, representing the President of the CRC, Samdech Kittiprittbandit Bun Rany Hun Sen. The ceremony took place on the afternoon of December 10, 2025, at the Ministry of Royal Palace meeting hall.

II. CRC Expresses Profound Gratitude

Samdech Bun Rany Hun Sen Tenders Letter of Royal Thanks

Following the reception of the generous royal contribution, Samdech Kittiprittbandit Bun Rany Hun Sen immediately offered a Letter of Royal Gratitude to His Majesty the King, expressing the highest respect and appreciation.

The letter’s core message affirmed the joy of the CRC team: “I, along with all colleagues of the Cambodian Red Cross, are immensely delighted to have received the noble royal donation of US$100,000… This supreme royal contribution will assist the refugees who are currently facing hardship and shortage due to the aggressive conflict along the Cambodia-Thailand border.”

The CRC President also acknowledged the King’s continuous support, stating that His Majesty consistently grants royal funds to the humanitarian activities of the Cambodian Red Cross in all circumstances.

III. Royal Blessings and Eternal Shelter

The message concluded with a heartfelt prayer, seeking eternal blessings and supreme happiness for the Monarch: “May His Majesty the King… continue to reign as a great, cool shade for the people across the Kingdom of Cambodia—His children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren—to take shelter under forever.”

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According to Senate Spokesperson H.E. Chea Thyrith, Samdech Techo Hun Sen extended a warm welcome to the Czech Ambassador and her delegation. He noted that her presence reflects the high value Cambodia places on its relations with the Czech Republic.

Historical Ties: The King’s Czech Education as a Symbol of Friendship

Samdech Techo highlighted the importance of the bilateral relationship and recalled the long-standing historical ties between the two countries. He specifically noted that His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni previously pursued his studies in the Czech Republic, a powerful symbol of the enduring friendship and mutual understanding shared by both nations.

Cambodia Values Relations with the Czech Republic

The continued exchange of high-level officials and the presence of the new Ambassador reaffirm the strong connection between Phnom Penh and Prague.

Czechia Commits to Boosting Trade and Investment in Cambodia

For her part, the Czech Ambassador reaffirmed her commitment to strengthening cooperation and promoting development efforts, particularly in trade and investment. She expressed her determination to encourage Czech investors to explore new opportunities in Cambodia.

Preparing for the 70th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations

H.E. Ms. Kolc Hájková also outlined her intention to promote investment in key sectors. As the two nations approach the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations, she aims to deepen cooperation through various high-level official visits and celebratory events.

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The monarch was seen off at Techo International Airport by Cambodia’s highest leadership, including:

• Senate President Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen
• National Assembly President Samdech Maha Rathsapheathika Thipadei Khuon Sudary
• Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet

Senior royal advisers, ministers, and other high-ranking officials were also present to bid farewell.

Acting Head of State Designated

In a royal message dated November 27, 2025, His Majesty informed the nation of his temporary absence commencing on December 1st.

Pursuant to established constitutional procedure, Senate President Samdech Techo Hun Sen has been designated to assume the role of Acting Head of State during the King’s absence.

His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni is scheduled to return to Cambodia later this week.

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The King’s procession was accompanied by Cambodia’s highest leaders, including: Samdech Techo Hun Sen, President of the Senate; Samdech Moha Rathsapheakthika Thipadei Khoun Sudary, President of the National Assembly; and Samdech Moha Bovor Thipadei Hun Manet, Prime Minister of Cambodia. Members of the Royal Government and thousands of Cambodian citizens also participated.

Celebrating 72 Years of Sovereignty

The Victory Flame, symbolizing the brilliant light of freedom and the rights of Cambodian citizens following the nation’s independence, had been brightly lit for three days, starting November 9, 2025.

November 9 marks the 72nd anniversary of Cambodia completely liberating itself from French colonization and regaining full sovereignty and freedom. This historic achievement was secured through the valiant royal crusade led by the late King-Father, His Majesty Preah Bat Samdech Norodom Sihanouk, Preah Borom Ratanak Kaodth.

This date is also recognized as the founding day of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF).

To honor this landmark day of reclaiming national ownership, ceremonies were held grandly across the country, centered around the Independence Monument—the iconic symbol of Cambodia’s hard-won independence—and celebrated vibrantly in all provinces and municipalities.

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Their Majesties landed at Techo International Airport in Kandal province and were greeted with a warm reception led by Cambodia’s top leadership:

• Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, President of the Senate and President of the Supreme Privy Council to His Majesty the King, and his spouse, Samdech Kittiprittpundit Bun Rany Hun Sen.
• Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet and his spouse, Lok Chumteav Dr. Pich Chanmony.

High-ranking officials, members of the Royal Family, and representatives of the Chinese Embassy in Cambodia were also present for the welcoming ceremony. The monarchs had departed for their regular medical examination on August 23, 2025.

Meetings and Diplomatic Engagements in Beijing

During their stay in China, Their Majesties participated in several high-profile diplomatic events that underscored the strong bilateral ties between Cambodia and China:

• Bilateral Meeting: Their Majesties met with H.E. Xi Jinping, President of the People’s Republic of China, and his spouse, Madame Peng Liyuan.
• Commemoration: His Majesty the King attended the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.
• Media Interview: King Norodom Sihamoni granted an exclusive interview to People’s Daily of China, where he emphasized the close and longstanding friendship between the two nations.

The Cambodian monarchs undergo these routine medical examinations in Beijing twice a year, a trip during which they are consistently received with warm hospitality and care by Chinese leaders and medical professionals.

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In a royal letter received this afternoon, the monarch conveyed sincere greetings on behalf of Her Majesty Queen Mother NORODOM MONINEATH SIHANOUK, the Royal Family, and the Cambodian people to the Communist Party, the State Council, the People’s Liberation Army, and the great people of China.

The King highlighted this year’s historic commemoration, referencing the grand military parade in Beijing on September 3, 2025. He stated that the parade serves as a “resounding testimony to China’s remarkable achievements” in modernization, national defense, technological innovation, and the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation. His Majesty also expressed his profound privilege in attending the celebration on Tiananmen Square, noting that the display of discipline and unity deeply reflected the Chinese nation’s commitment to peace, security, stability, and prosperity.

On this solemn anniversary, King Sihamoni affirmed Cambodia’s great pride in its long-standing, “iron-clad friendship” and comprehensive strategic cooperation with the PRC. He stressed his confidence that under President Xi Jinping’s wise leadership, the “all-weather community with a shared future” will be further strengthened, bringing renewed prosperity to both peoples and contributing to regional and global harmony.

The King and Queen Mother also took the opportunity to express their deepest appreciation to President Xi Jinping for the warm meeting on August 26, 2025, and their heartfelt gratitude for the gracious solicitude in hosting them in China for medical check-ups.

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