In a significant development in Cambodian foreign policy, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Her Excellency SUN Sovanna announced that the Kingdom of Cambodia will host the 6th Francophonie Entrepreneur Meeting (FEM) in 2026. This move is part of Cambodia's efforts to strengthen economic ties with the French-speaking world.
On behalf of Deputy Prime Minister PRAK Sokhonn, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Her Excellency SUN Sovanna attended the 5th Edition of FEM held from 26 to 28 June 2025 in Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo. During his visit, he met with His Excellency Mr. Denis SASSOU N'GUESSO, President of the Republic of the Congo, and Her Excellency Louise MUSHIKIWABO, Secretary General of the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF).
The 5th FEM brought together over 1,000 high-level public and private decision-makers, representatives from international institutions, and business leaders to exchange views on development challenges, strengthening value chains, and fostering innovation and collaboration among business stakeholders within the French-speaking world. The event was a significant success, with His Excellency SUN Sovanna praising the organization of the meeting.
Addressing the closing of the 5th FEM, Her Excellency SUN Sovanna expressed Cambodia's commitment to enhancing a more resilient and inclusive Francophone economic space. He affirmed that Cambodia will establish a Francophone Economic Cooperation Office (FECO) in Cambodia following the 20th Francophonie Summit, with the aim of strengthening Francophone economic partnerships in the Asia-Pacific region, focusing on innovation, digital technology, and youth training.
To promote economic cooperation between Cambodia and the French-speaking world, Her Excellency SUN Sovanna invited participation from all French-speaking economic players at the 6th FEM in Cambodia next year. This move is expected to strengthen ties with French-speaking countries and foster economic growth in the region.
On the sidelines of the 5th FEM, Her Excellency Sun Sovanna met several representatives of the private sector to mobilize support for the upcoming Francophonie economic and business activities to be organized during the 20th Francophonie Summit in Siem Reap, Cambodia. These efforts aim to promote entrepreneurship, trade, and investment between Cambodia and French-speaking countries.
In conclusion, Cambodia's hosting of the 6th FEM in 2026 marks a significant step in strengthening economic ties with the French-speaking world. This move reflects Cambodia's commitment to promoting economic cooperation and innovation within the Francophone sphere, and its efforts to enhance regional connectivity and growth.