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France Pledges Deeper Ties With Cambodia Ahead of Francophonie Summit

Terry Felix​​​​   On February 26, 2026 - 1:16 pm​   In Asia Pacific   2mn Read
France Pledges Deeper Ties With Cambodia Ahead of Francophonie Summit France Pledges Deeper Ties With Cambodia Ahead of Francophonie Summit

PARIS, Feb. 26, 2026 — France has urged the full implementation of the December 27 ceasefire agreement between Cambodia and Thailand and reiterated its support for a peaceful resolution of their border dispute in accordance with international law.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot held talks on Wednesday with Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn, the French Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

The discussion followed a telephone call between the two ministers on Dec. 23 and focused on strengthening bilateral ties ahead of Cambodian plans to host the 20th Francophonie Summit in November 2026, which French President Emmanuel Macron is expected to attend on a state visit.

The ministers discussed expanding economic cooperation, particularly in the energy, healthcare and agri-food sectors, as well as heritage collaboration centered on the Angkor archaeological site.

They also highlighted their shared interest in combating online fraud centers, an issue that has drawn increasing regional attention.

On regional security, Barrot reaffirmed France’s commitment to stability in Southeast Asia and stressed the importance of fully implementing the Dec. 27 ceasefire agreement between Cambodia and Thailand.

“The continuation of political dialogue between Thailand and Cambodia is necessary to achieve a peaceful and lasting resolution of the border dispute, in respect of international law and their bilateral commitments,” the statement said.

France expressed support for ASEAN’s mediation efforts and said it remains in contact with both parties in an impartial manner. Paris also reiterated its readiness to facilitate access to archival documents in its possession related to the historical demarcation of the border.

Cambodia and Thailand share a long and occasionally contentious border, with tensions periodically flaring over disputed areas dating back to colonial-era treaties.

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