Hun Manet Welcomes Macron Visit, Pushes Strategic Partnership

Hun Manet Welcomes Macron Visit, Pushes Strategic Partnership

PHNOM PENH, April 9, 2026 — Cambodia and France are working to elevate their bilateral ties to a strategic partnership, Prime Minister Hun Manet said following talks with French President Emmanuel Macron.

Hun Manet expressed appreciation for Macron’s “warm hospitality” and described their discussions as productive, aimed at strengthening cooperation between the two countries.

He said both sides are moving toward upgrading diplomatic relations to a “Strategic Partnership” in the near future, marking a significant step in Cambodia-France ties.

The Cambodian leader also said he looks forward to welcoming Macron on an official state visit to Cambodia, as well as his participation in the 20th Francophonie Summit, which Cambodia will host in November 2026.

The planned upgrade reflects deepening cooperation between Phnom Penh and Paris across key sectors, including energy, health and cultural heritage, building on longstanding historical ties and shared engagement within the Francophonie framework.