In an interview with National Television of Cambodia (TVK) ahead of the historic gathering in Phnom Penh, Mushikiwabo highlighted Cambodia’s longstanding connection with the Francophonie and its growing role in strengthening cooperation between French-speaking countries and Asia.

Cambodia’s Historical Connection with the Francophonie

The OIF Secretary-General recalled that Cambodia holds a special place within the Francophone community as the homeland of one of the organisation’s founding fathers, the late King Father Norodom Sihanouk.

The late King Father joined Léopold Sédar Senghor of Senegal, Habib Bourguiba of Tunisia and Hamani Diori of Niger in promoting the institutional development of the Francophonie. Their efforts led to the establishment of the Agency for Cultural and Technical Cooperation (ACCT) in Niamey, Niger, on March 20, 1970, which later evolved into the OIF.

Mushikiwabo described the summit’s return to Asia after nearly three decades as a significant moment for the organisation. The previous summit in the region was held in Hanoi, Vietnam, in 1997.

She compared the visit to returning to a family member after a long absence, reflecting the historical and personal significance of Cambodia’s relationship with the Francophone community.

Cambodia’s Commitment Sets an Example

Mushikiwabo also commended Cambodia’s determination and sense of responsibility in preparing to host the international event.

She said the Kingdom had demonstrated a strong commitment to fulfilling its responsibilities as host, describing its efforts as a valuable example for other OIF member states and governments.

Hosting the summit for the first time represents an important milestone in Cambodia’s international engagement. It also provides an opportunity to showcase the country’s cultural heritage, hospitality and capacity to facilitate high-level international dialogue.

The summit is scheduled for November 15–16, 2026, in Phnom Penh, bringing together leaders and representatives from across the Francophone world.

Cambodia’s Experience Highlights the Value of Peace

Beyond its diplomatic significance, the Secretary-General highlighted Cambodia’s experience in overcoming the devastating consequences of war and genocide.

She noted that the country’s recovery and rebuilding offer an important lesson to the international community about the value of peace, resilience and national reconstruction.

Referring to the summit’s theme, “Reinvest in Peace for Shared Prosperity and Lasting Stability”, Mushikiwabo stressed that peace must be established as a foundation for progress in other areas, particularly economic development and shared prosperity.

Cambodia’s history, she observed, demonstrates the profound human and national costs of conflict. The country’s ability to rebuild after decades of instability offers encouragement to nations seeking peaceful solutions to their own challenges.

Her remarks also reflect a central message of the summit: peace is not simply the absence of armed conflict but an essential condition for sustainable development, economic opportunity and improved living standards.

Cambodia as a Gateway to Southeast Asia

Mushikiwabo further described Cambodia as an important gateway through which the Francophone community can strengthen its engagement with Asia, particularly Southeast Asia.

She explained that the region offers valuable opportunities for the OIF to develop closer relationships, expand dialogue and explore new areas of cooperation with countries across Asia.

For the organisation, Cambodia’s historical connection to the Francophonie, combined with its geographical position in Southeast Asia, provides a meaningful foundation for strengthening these ties.

The Secretary-General noted that this relationship could support broader political, economic and cultural partnerships between Francophone countries and Asian nations.

Cambodian Hospitality Makes a Lasting Impression

Mushikiwabo also expressed appreciation for the warm hospitality extended by the Cambodian people to visiting delegations.

She said representatives from across the Francophone world had been deeply touched by the friendliness, welcoming spirit and willingness of Cambodians to assist international visitors.

Such hospitality, alongside the country’s cultural identity and historical connection with the Francophonie, contributes to Cambodia’s role as a meeting point between different peoples and cultures.

A Summit Beyond Language and Diplomacy

Cambodia’s hosting of the 20th Francophonie Summit represents more than an opportunity to strengthen its relationship with French-speaking nations. It also provides a platform to promote dialogue, cultural exchange, international cooperation and shared development.

Through its historical experience, Cambodia brings an important perspective to discussions on peace and resilience. At the same time, its position in Southeast Asia offers the Francophone community an opportunity to deepen engagement with a dynamic and increasingly interconnected region.

As the summit brings together leaders and representatives from across the world, Mushikiwabo’s remarks underline the importance of Cambodia’s role in connecting regions, encouraging cooperation and placing peace at the centre of shared prosperity.

Sources and verification

• Official 20th Francophonie Summit website – Summit Theme
• Official Summit Presentation
• Official OIF Overview
• France Diplomatie – La Francophonie
• AKP – Cambodian PM and OIF Secretary-General Open Francophonie Village

Editorial note: The interview details and quotations in the article are based on the text you supplied. The supporting sources above verify the historical and summit context; they are not presented as independent transcripts of the TVK interview.

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