Macron Praises Cambodia Ties in Rare Khmer-Language Message
Macron Praises Cambodia Ties in Rare Khmer-Language Message
PARIS, April 9, 2026 — French President Emmanuel Macron praised Cambodia–France relations and highlighted growing cooperation following talks with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, in a message posted in Khmer that drew attention for its rare use of the language by a Western leader.
In the statement posted on his X official account, Macron thanked Hun Manet for participating in the One Health Summit in Lyon and for what he described as “productive discussions” in Paris.
He said ties between Cambodia and France are “deep” and continue to strengthen across sectors including energy, health and cultural heritage.
Macron also highlighted cooperation through the Francophonie, noting that after the 2024 summit in Villers-Cotterêts, the next summit will be held in Phnom Penh in November, where he said he looks forward to visiting Cambodia.
The French president described the upcoming summit as “another opportunity to further strengthen the bonds that unite our two countries.”
Macron’s decision to deliver the message in Khmer — widely seen as accurate and well-crafted — was noted as a symbolic gesture of respect and cultural recognition, reinforcing diplomatic goodwill between the two nations.
The exchange comes amid a broader push by both countries to elevate bilateral relations, with discussions underway to upgrade ties to a strategic partnership.
