In a significant development, Cambodia and France reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations during the official visit of Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, Prime Minister of Cambodia, to Paris on 18 January 2024. The joint declaration issued by both countries marked a new momentum in their partnership, building on previous efforts to enhance cooperation in various fields.
The two leaders emphasized the importance of fostering French investment and trade, with a focus on boosting investment and expanding economic cooperation between the two countries. They also discussed the implementation of projects to protect and promote Cambodia’s cultural heritage, including the renovation and expansion of the National Museum in Phnom Penh.
France welcomed Cambodia’s candidacy for hosting the 20th Summit of the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF) in 2026, recognizing its contribution to the dynamics of Francophone in the Asia-Pacific region. The French side also expressed its appreciation for Cambodia’s strong commitment to climate change, aiming to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 through a strategy focused on a clean, green and sustainable environment.
The two countries stressed their shared commitment to promoting peace, security, and stability in the region. They welcomed the strengthening of bilateral defense cooperation, including de-mining training for Cambodian troops and French-language training for UN peacekeepers. The leaders also expressed their support for ASEAN centrality and reaffirmed their full support for France’s Indo-Pacific Strategy.
France and Cambodia reaffirmed their adherence to the principles of independence, territorial integrity and sovereignty, as well as the importance of respecting international humanitarian law. They called for an immediate long-term ceasefire in the Middle East crisis and reiterated their commitment to a two-state solution for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The two countries also agreed to enhance bilateral relations with the aim of achieving a strategic partnership by deepening cooperation between the two nations. This move reflects Cambodia’s growing importance in regional and international affairs, as well as its efforts to strengthen ties with key partners like France.
In conclusion, the joint declaration issued by Cambodia and France marks an important step forward in their bilateral relationship. As global challenges persist, it is essential for countries like Cambodia and France to work together to address these issues and promote peace, security, and stability in the region.
The French Development Agency has already pledged to support Cambodia’s efforts to link rapid economic development to energy transition through three signed agreements worth €215 million.
France has also expressed its readiness to assist Cambodia in its efforts to combat climate change and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.
Cambodia’s commitment to not developing hydropower dams on the Mekong River or coal-fired power plants is a significant step towards sustainable development.
The two sides agreed to work together for the preparation of the United Nations Ocean Conference to be held in Nice in 2025.