For the next two years, Cambodia will be at the helm of the Francophonie bloc Presidency.
During it’s presidency Cambodia Prime Minister Hun Manet said that the OIF, they will strengthen the organizations unity to turn ambitions and missions into actions for peace, economics and technology enhancement.
The 20th La Francophonie Summit kicked off today in the capital Phnom Penh under the theme “Reinvest in Peace for Shared Prosperity and Lasting Stability.”
Cambodia’s King Norodom Sihamoni presided over the summit’s opening ceremony, welcoming the leaders of the French-speaking community.
French President Emmanuel Macron officially handed over the presidency to Cambodia, giving the country full powers during the 2-year term.
“France is happy and proud to present to you today the presidency of the Francophonie Summit,” he said.
The French leader said the decision to hand the OIF presidency to Cambodia wasn’t easy.
“It embodied the continuity of the International Organization of La Francophonie’s ambitions and the vitality of an organization, the one where the world needs dialogue and rapprochement,” Macron said.
Louise Mushikiwabo who is the incumbent secretary General of the organisation also seeking a third term welcomed Cambodia’s Presidency.
“In 2024 in Paris, you invited us to your beautiful country, promising us the smiles and warmth of the Cambodian people. That promise has been more than fulfilled,” she said.
“The state of the world calls for responses and a renewed sense of purpose from the Francophone community gathered here.” Mushikiwabo added
A total of 81 countries are taking part, with more than 20 countries represented by both heads of state and heads of government.
