PHNOM PENH — The National Bank of Cambodia (NBC), in collaboration with the Bank of France, is hosting the 28th Conference of Central Bank Governors of Francophone Countries, bringing together 26 central bank governors from Europe, America, Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and the Pacific.
The conference is taking place from May 28 to 31 in Phnom Penh under the theme “Central Bank Autonomy in the Face of Public and State Expectations”—a timely discussion as central banks worldwide navigate new economic and social pressures.
Quick Facts
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Event | 28th Conference of Central Bank Governors of Francophone Countries |
| Dates | May 28–31, 2026 |
| Location | Phnom Penh, Cambodia |
| Hosts | NBC & Bank of France |
| Key speakers | Chea Serey, François Villeroy de Galhau, Christine Lagarde |
| Number of governors | 26 |
| Theme | “Central Bank Autonomy in the Face of Public and State Expectations” |
| Cambodia’s hosting history | 1996, 2011, 2026 |
| Next major event | 20th Francophonie Summit (Nov 15-16, 2026) |
High-Level Opening
The event was opened with keynote speeches from the following:
- H.E. Dr. Chea Serey, Governor of the National Bank of Cambodia
- H.E. François Villeroy de Galhau, Governor of the Bank of France (Banque de France)
- H.E. Christine Lagarde, President of the European Central Bank
The presence of ECB President Lagarde—one of the world’s most influential central bankers—underscores the significance of the gathering and Cambodia’s growing standing within international financial diplomacy.
Key Discussion: Central Bank Autonomy
According to Cambodia’s central bank, the conference discussed and exchanged key perspectives on the scope of central bank autonomy in a situation where the world is facing a new evolution of economic and social realities.
“Central banks are facing higher expectations from the state and the public,” the NBC said in a statement, highlighting the delicate balance between independent monetary policy and democratic accountability.
Cambodia’s Third Time Hosting
This is the third time Cambodia has hosted this international meeting:
- First: 1996
- Second: 2011
- Third: 2026
The Conference of Central Bank Governors of Francophone Countries was established in 1994 on the initiative of the French central bank to provide an annual forum for dialogue and exchange of experiences on economic, monetary, and financial topics. The conference has made significant contributions to promoting cooperation between central banks, particularly among French‑speaking institutions.
Francophonie Summit Preview
The conference serves as a precursor to Cambodia hosting the 20th Francophonie Summit in Phnom Penh from November 15 to 16, 2026. The summit will bring together heads of state and government from the 88 member states of the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF).
Analyst’s View
Dr. Chheng Kimlong, a policy analyst, said hosting the conference strengthens Cambodia’s international financial credentials.
“Having Lagarde and 26 central bank governors in Phnom Penh sends a strong signal about Cambodia’s integration into global financial governance. The theme of autonomy versus public expectations is particularly relevant as central banks face pressure to address inflation, climate risks, and digital currencies simultaneously,” he said.