Prak Sokhonn Visit Boosts Cambodia–France Strategic Partnership

Terry Felix On March 4, 2026 - 7:14 am In Politics 1mn Read

PHNOM PENH, March 4, 2026 — Cambodia and France agreed to deepen cooperation across key sectors including defense, energy, agriculture and technology following talks between Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn and French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot in Paris, Cambodia’s foreign ministry said.

During the Feb. 25 working visit, the two sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and encouraging greater participation from both public and private sectors in major development projects.

The ministers also highlighted cultural cooperation, including the planned inauguration in November 2026 of restoration work on the Western Mebon temple within the Angkor archaeological complex in Siem Reap.

Discussions also covered preparations for the 20th Francophonie Summit, which Cambodia will host in Phnom Penh in November 2026. France, which currently holds the presidency of the summit, plans to send a ministerial delegation to Cambodia ahead of the event.

Barrot praised Cambodia’s efforts to combat online scams and invited Cambodian leaders to attend the 9th World Congress Against the Death Penalty, scheduled to take place in Paris in July.

On regional issues, Prak Sokhonn thanked France for supporting Cambodia’s efforts to resolve its border dispute with Thailand peacefully and for providing historical archives and maps that may assist in clarifying border delimitation.

Barrot said France stands ready to support initiatives aimed at resolving the dispute in accordance with international law.

Cambodia reaffirmed its commitment to settling the issue through peaceful means while working to ensure the safe return of civilians affected by the border situation.