French Ambassador: Cambodia and France Are ‘An Old Couple’ Bound by History
French Ambassador: Cambodia and France Are ‘An Old Couple’ Bound by History
PHNOM PENH, 16 July 2026 — French Ambassador to Cambodia Olivier Richard has described diplomatic relations between Cambodia and France as “an old couple,” saying the two countries have maintained a deep and resilient friendship despite decades of historical upheaval and global uncertainty.
Speaking during France’s Bastille Day celebration on the evening of 14 July, Richard said the relationship has endured numerous challenges throughout history, yet the longstanding friendship between the two nations has continued to grow stronger.
“Cambodia and France are an old couple,” the ambassador said, explaining that while the phrase reflects a long and sometimes difficult shared history marked by change and tragedy, it also symbolizes an enduring partnership that has never been broken.
Richard noted that the world is currently facing growing tensions and uncertainty, while Cambodia continues to deal with challenges along its border and transnational crimes that could threaten stability. France, he added, is also confronting its own domestic and international challenges.
“An old couple becomes stronger and better over time because the friendship between us is deep and solid,” he said, adding that the relationship between the two countries is built on mutual trust and shared history.
The ambassador also reaffirmed that French President Emmanuel Macron is scheduled to pay a state visit to Cambodia in November 2026. He said both President Macron and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet are committed to elevating bilateral cooperation, with both governments working closely to ensure the visit marks a new chapter in Cambodia-France relations.
According to Richard, the presidential visit will serve as a milestone to build on existing cooperation while creating new opportunities across a range of sectors, further strengthening the partnership between the two countries.
