On 03 Jun 2024, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation announced that Deputy Prime Minister Sok Chenda Sophea took part in the Fourth Meeting of Francophone Entrepreneurs in Marrakesh, Morocco. This high-level engagement marked an important step in solidifying Cambodia’s relationships with Francophone countries.
The meeting, which brought together over 1,000 companies from France and its territories, provided a platform for His Excellency the Deputy Prime Minister to discuss key economic issues with entrepreneurs and business leaders. The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized the need for the Royal Government of Cambodia to support the development of companies, highlighting two crucial areas: meeting and listening to their needs, and providing assistance in adapting to new circumstances through human resource development and professional training.
During his address to the opening session, His Excellency the Deputy Prime Minister outlined initiatives taken by the Royal Government of Cambodia to promote economic attractiveness, Francophonie, and French nationals abroad. These efforts include strengthening ties with Francophone countries, supporting entrepreneurship, and promoting cultural exchange programs.
On the sidelines of the meeting, His Excellency the Deputy Prime Minister met with Mrs. Louise Mushikiwabo, Secretary General of the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie (OIF), to discuss Cambodia’s candidacy to host the Twentieth Francophone Summit in 2026. The Deputy Prime Minister outlined actions already taken by Cambodia to prepare for the Summit if its candidacy is confirmed in October.
The two sides discussed issues related to the Francophone community in Cambodia, as well as ways to promote economic cooperation and cultural exchange between France and Cambodia. These discussions were welcomed by both parties, who acknowledged Cambodia’s dynamism among French-speaking countries and territories.
In addition to meetings with high-level officials from Francophone countries, His Excellency the Deputy Prime Minister also engaged with representatives of private sector organizations, including the Alliance des Patronats Francophones (APF) and the Confédération Générale des Entreprises du Maroc (CGEM). The Deputy Prime Minister’s discussions with these groups highlighted Cambodia’s commitment to hosting the Sixth Meeting of Francophone Entrepreneurs in 2026.
Overall, His Excellency the Deputy Prime Minister’s participation in the Fourth Meeting of Francophone Entrepreneurs underscores Cambodia’s dedication to strengthening its relationships with Francophone countries. By engaging in high-level diplomacy and promoting economic cooperation, Cambodia aims to solidify its position as a key player in regional and international affairs.
Conclusion:
The successful meeting between His Excellency the Deputy Prime Minister and Francophone entrepreneurs demonstrates Cambodia’s commitment to fostering strong ties with Francophone countries. As Cambodia prepares to host the Twentieth Francophone Summit in 2026, this engagement marks an important step towards solidifying its role in regional and international affairs.