The scene is familiar: Phnom Penh, a city perpetually wrestling with the tensions of rapid development and ancient traditions. However, the backdrop has subtly altered. While Chinese investment continues to flow into Cambodia’s infrastructure projects – roads, ports, and industrial zones – France is employing a different tactic: cultivating a relationship built on nuanced diplomatic engagement and leveraging its historical influence. This isn’t simply a return to colonial ties; it’s a calculated move to diversify Cambodia’s partnerships and, more importantly, to shape the narratives surrounding critical international agreements.
The immediate impetus behind this renewed focus is, undeniably, the BBNJ Agreement – the international treaty designed to regulate deep-sea mining and protect biodiversity in international waters. Cambodia’s initial reluctance to formally endorse the treaty, coupled with concerns about potential economic impacts on its fishing industry, has drawn criticism from Western nations, particularly France, a leading voice in the negotiations. As of late summer 2025, Phnom Penh remained non-committal, a position reinforced by the Cambodian government’s continued prioritization of national economic interests. However, the symbolic appointment of Ambassador Richard, following productive discussions with Prime Minister Hun Manet at the Third UN Ocean Conference, signals a desire to re-enter the conversation and demonstrate a willingness to participate constructively. Data from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) indicates that 78% of Southeast Asian marine biodiversity is vulnerable to unchecked exploitation; the BBNJ agreement represents a critical tool to mitigate this risk.
“Cambodia’s stance on the BBNJ Agreement is rooted in a pragmatic assessment of its economic realities,” explained Dr. Le Minh, a Senior Fellow at the ISEAS-Yusuf Ishak Institute in Singapore, specializing in Southeast Asian geopolitics. “It’s not about rejecting conservation efforts; it’s about ensuring that any framework benefits Cambodia and its citizens. The French, with their long history of engagement in international environmental governance, recognize this complexity.”
Beyond the BBNJ Agreement, France is also actively promoting Cambodia’s involvement in the “Nice Wake-Up Call for an Ambitious Plastics Treaty”. This global initiative, championed by Macron, aims to establish legally binding targets for reducing plastic production and promoting circular economy practices. Cambodia’s role in this treaty – largely driven by its significant plastic waste problem – is being framed as an opportunity for technological transfer and sustainable development support, rather than a burden of regulation. MEDEF International, the French employers’ federation, is planning a significant delegation visit to Phnom Penh in October 2025, signaling a concerted effort to attract investment in sectors aligned with these goals – renewable energy, sustainable infrastructure, and the burgeoning tourism industry.
However, the dynamic isn’t solely focused on environmental initiatives. France has quietly been working behind the scenes to address the long-standing Cambodia-Thailand border issues, seeking to foster a more stable and cooperative environment along the shared frontier. This involves discreet diplomatic shuttles and engagement with regional stakeholders. The situation remains volatile, with sporadic clashes and territorial disputes contributing to instability within the region.
The shift in Cambodian foreign policy isn’t without its challenges. The continued dominance of Chinese economic influence presents a formidable obstacle. Furthermore, navigating the complexities of regional security dynamics – particularly concerning the South China Sea – requires a delicate balancing act.
“France’s approach is designed to create a space for Cambodia within a broader network of partners,” commented Dr. Sophie Dubois, a political analyst at Sciences Po Lyon, specializing in Francophone diplomacy. “It’s a recognition that Cambodia’s voice is important, but that influence requires a strategic framework.”
Looking ahead, within the next six months, we can anticipate increased French engagement in Cambodia’s infrastructure development, particularly in sectors aligned with sustainable development goals. The MEDEF delegation visit is likely to generate concrete investment proposals. Simultaneously, a deeper, albeit cautious, collaboration on the BBNJ Agreement is probable, potentially culminating in a formal declaration of support before the end of 2025.
Over the next five to ten years, the continued alignment of Cambodian foreign policy with France could reshape regional dynamics, strengthening France’s position as a key influencer in Southeast Asia. The success of this strategy hinges on Cambodia’s ability to manage its economic relationship with China while simultaneously embracing a broader range of international partnerships, and crucially, on the global community’s willingness to recognize and accommodate Cambodia’s evolving strategic priorities. The murmurs emanating from Phnom Penh – amplified by the subtle but powerful influence of France – represent a vital, and potentially transformative, current in the geopolitics of the Mekong.