Francophonie Village opens in Cambodia to showcase cultural diversity

Women taking pictures at the Village De La Froncophone ahead of the 20th Summit of the Francophonie in Phnom Penh on Nov 12, 2026. - AFP

PHNOM PENH: The Francophonie Village officially opened its doors to the public here in the Cambodian capital on Friday (Nov 13), showcasing rich cultural diversity and promoting trade.

The five-day gathering serves as a sideline event of the 20th Francophonie Summit, scheduled for Nov 15 and 16.

The venue features 73 pavilions representing member states and partners of the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF), alongside 130 exhibition booths from various public and private entities.

A replica of the damaged Preah Vihear Temple takes centre stage at the Francophonie village. - AKP

These spaces showcase local handicrafts, commercial products, international tourism potential, and traditional heritage.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said the event gave visitors a unique opportunity to discover the pavilions of French-speaking nations, taste new flavors, and enjoy diverse cultures and traditions.

Louise Mushikiwabo (left), secretary-general of the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie, Prime Minister Hun Manet, and first lady Pich Chanmony attending the opening of the Francophone Village on Nov 13. - AKPShareListen to this article~8 min · AI Voice

This village serves as a wonderful opportunity to introduce the Francophonie to the Cambodian people, and, conversely, to introduce Cambodia to French speakers from all over the world, OIF Secretary-General Louise Mushikiwabo said.

The village is open to the public free of charge and is expected to welcome approximately 100,000 visitors from Cambodia and abroad. - Xinhua