In recent discussions, Cambodian Senate President Samdech Techo Hun Sen and the French Ambassador to Cambodia, Jacques Pellet, highlighted the flourishing trade and investment relations between Cambodia and France, indicating a vibrant future for bilateral cooperation.
The discussion took place during a courtesy call by Ambassador Jacques Pellet on 4 July 2024, where various facets of the Cambodia-France relationship were covered. The ambassador detailed the progress in cooperation since Cambodia’s Senate was first formed in 1999 and pointed out the intensity of bilateral engagements witnessed through high-level visits, reflecting a deepening diplomatic rapport. Notably, visits by Cambodian dignitaries to France and the reciprocal engagements have played pivotal roles in this regard.
Pellet shared information on the anticipated participation of the Cambodian sports delegation, led by Minister of Education Hang Chuon Naron, in the upcoming Summer Games and voiced France’s robust support for Cambodia’s bid to host the 2026 Francophone Summit. Hosting this summit would position Cambodia as the second ASEAN country to do so, following Vietnam in 1997, with France playing a supportive role in the summit’s organization, reflecting a shared dedication to fostering the French language and cultural ties.
Furthermore, the ongoing growth in Cambodian-French economic engagement was discussed, with particular emphasis on the increased presence of French companies in Cambodia. An upcoming Cambodia-France Business Forum, featuring over 250 French investors and several Cambodian government ministers, signifies a concrete step towards enhancing business and investment links between the two nations.
Highlights of the collaboration include the expansion of the French High School René Descartes in Phnom Penh, driven by soaring demand for admissions, and the breakthrough in infrastructural cooperation seen in the commencement of the third phase of the Bak Kheng Water Treatment Plant. This project, supported by French firm Vinci Constructions and facilitated by the French Agency for Development (AFD), underlines France’s ongoing commitment to Cambodia’s developmental needs, with contributions expanding significantly to support crucial sectors.
The visit of the President of the French Senate, Gérard Larcher, scheduled for the end of 2024, promises to further strengthen parliamentary dialogue and mutual understanding.
Samdech Techo Hun Sen reciprocated the positive sentiments, appreciating the evolution and richness of the Cambodia-France relationship. He commended the significant milestones achieved, including the official inauguration of the Khmer-French War Memorial and expressed gratitude towards France for its support in various domains, notably Cambodia’s candidacy for the Francophonie Summit hosting.
The discussions also touched upon regional and global issues, with both parties reiterating their dedication to pursuing comprehensive cooperation across diverse fields, including health, digital education, infrastructure, and environmental sustainability. The meeting underscored a mutual commitment to enhancing global peace and security, addressing climate change, and combating global challenges, which spells out a promising horizon for Cambodia-France relations, based on shared goals and deep-rooted friendship.
Source: Fresh News
