Phnom penh: Samdech Maha Rathsapheathika Thipadei Khuon Sudary, President of the National Assembly (NA) of the Kingdom of Cambodia, expressed gratitude for France's contributions to Cambodia's development, particularly in capacity building and the digital transformation of the 'E-parliament' project.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, Samdech Khuon Sudary conveyed her appreciation during a farewell courtesy call from H.E. Jacques Pellet, Ambassador of the French Republic to Cambodia, at the NA Palace. The NA president highlighted the longstanding friendship between Cambodia and France, emphasizing the role of parliamentary diplomacy in fostering multilateralism and regional peace.
She acknowledged Ambassador Pellet's efforts in facilitating high-level political engagement, including two visits by Samdech Techo Hun Sen, President of the Senate, to France. Samdech also recalled the June 2025 meeting between Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet and President Emmanuel Macron, where both leaders agreed to enhance bilateral relations to a 'Strategic Partnership.'
Samdech confirmed her upcoming meeting with H.E. Ya«l Braun-Pivet, President of the French National Assembly, during international parliamentary summits in Geneva, to strengthen parliamentary friendship and dialogue.
During the meeting, Samdech Khuon Sudary discussed recent border tensions with Thailand, including an armed incursion in the Mom Bei area, and sought France's support for peaceful dialogue and cooperation based on historical treaties and agreements. Cambodia has also submitted a case to the International Court of Justice regarding disputed areas, reaffirming its commitment to peaceful dispute resolution.
H.E. Jacques Pellet reflected on his diplomatic career and expressed admiration for Cambodia's progress in various sectors. He commended joint efforts in training Cambodian professionals and supporting key institutions. The Ambassador highlighted cultural collaboration, particularly the restoration of a historical statue, and France's commitment to heritage preservation in Cambodia.
The Ambassador received a royal decoration in recognition of his contributions and announced his upcoming public lecture in Cambodia. He also mentioned preparations for a potential state visit by President Emmanuel Macron in 2026, coinciding with the Francophonie Summit, and discussed prospects for continued French support in key sectors.
Both sides expressed confidence in maintaining the momentum of Cambodia-France relations, with new initiatives planned for September, aiming to elevate bilateral ties to a Strategic Partnership by 2026.