King Norodom Sihamoni delivered an emotional closing speech, expressing gratitude to the member countries of the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF) for their support. Vive La Francophonie
In a potentially important step towards strengthening its presence on the global innovation stage, Cambodia has made its debut at FrancoTech, held at Station F in Paris.
Showcasing 12 promising startups, the Kingdom captured the attention of visitors with cutting-edge developments across various sectors including HealthTech, AI, EdTech, FinTech and more.
The display not only highlighted Cambodia’s rising profile in the tech world but also sets the stage for the country’s upcoming role as the host of the 20th Francophonie Summit, in 2026.
“For the first time, Cambodia joined FrancoTech, a trade fair that promotes innovation in the Francophone world,” said an official from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
The Cambodian delegation presented a diverse array of startups, demonstrating the country’s rapid technological progress and burgeoning startup ecosystem.
Notably, Immersive Angkor exhibited its work in 3D and virtual reality, Bikay showcased innovative software development solutions and Source Amax impressed visitors with its technological advancements.
“Visitors were impressed by the development of Cambodia's startup ecosystem, especially how it has positioned itself as the 'startup kingdom' in the ASEAN region," added the official.
The highlight for Cambodia was when one of its startups was selected for a pitching session on food security, reflecting the nation’s engagement in critical global issues.
Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Sok Chenda Sophea opened the Cambodia stand at "FrancoTech".
The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Sok Chenda Sophea, speaks with French President Emmanuel Macron, in front of the Cambodia stand at FrancoTech. Foreign ministry
The exhibition serves to illustrate technological products from member countries of the International Organization of la Francophonie (OIF).
The Cambodian team at FrancoTech included officials from both the Ministry of Post and Telecommunications and the National Bank of Cambodia (NBC), led by Khov Makara, ministry secretary of state, and Yim Leat, deputy governor of the NBC.
Their participation reflected a coordinated effort to showcase Cambodia’s advancements in digital transformation and financial innovation.
FrancoTech, held on October 3-4, gathered over 1,500 professionals, heads of state, and entrepreneurs from more than 100 countries.
With a focus on promoting innovation in the Francophone world, the event explored five key themes: artificial intelligence, energy transition, human capital, logistics and food security, and the financing of innovation.
Wide-ranging discussions aimed to stimulate partnerships and drive success through innovation in French-speaking countries, providing a global platform for Cambodia to shine.
In another significant development, Cambodia is set to host the 20th Francophonie Summit in 2026.
This announcement was made by French President Emmanuel Macron during the 19th Francophonie Summit in Paris, receiving wide applause from the gathered heads of state and government.
FrancoTech, held on October 3-4, gathered over 1,500 professionals, heads of state and entrepreneurs from more than 100 countries. Vive La Francophonie
“Cambodia will host the 20th Francophonie Summit in 2026,” he declared, to thunderous applause from the heads of state and government who were gathered under the glass dome of the Grand Palais in Paris,” said a foreign ministry press release.
A short film highlighting Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage and development was shown, underscoring the country’s growing importance on the international stage.
King Norodom Sihamoni delivered an emotional closing speech, expressing gratitude to the OIF member countries for their support.
He assured the assembly that Cambodia is committed to making the 2026 summit an exceptional moment of unity and celebration, blending past and future.
“Under the attentive and admiring gaze of the assembly, in complete silence, His Majesty the King, in a speech marked by solemnity, expressed his sincere gratitude to all member countries for their support and assured that his government and his people were committed to making the 20th Summit of the Francophonie an exceptional moment of sharing, a celebration,” said the ministry.
With 320 million speakers across 88 states and governments, the French language plays a significant role in global business and innovation, contributing 16% of global GDP and 20% of global trade, according to Vive La Francophonie.
