Moroccan Prime Minister Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri arrived in Phnom Penh on November 14, 2026, to represent King Mohammed VI at the 20th Francophonie Summit. The summit, scheduled for November 15-16, will bring together leaders from 90 states and governments that are members of the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF). El Mansouri was welcomed at Phnom Penh's Techo International Airport by Un Kheang, Secretary of State at the Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and Abderrahim Rahhaly, Moroccan Ambassador to Thailand and Cambodia.

The Francophonie Summit, taking place under the theme "Reinvesting in Peace for Shared Prosperity and Sustainable Stability," aims to define the OIF's orientations and examine key issues in Francophone cooperation. The summit will also see the election of the next Secretary-General of La Francophonie for a four-year term from 2027 to 2030. As the highest instance of La Francophonie, the summit provides an opportunity for member states to assess the OIF's actions and discuss its role in the evolving multilateral landscape.

With one year remaining in the 2024-2027 programming period, summit attendees will evaluate the results achieved and discuss the OIF's position in the changing global landscape. The summit is expected to conclude with the adoption of the Phnom Penh Declaration and several resolutions. Leaders will also decide on the date and location of the 21st Francophonie Summit, scheduled for 2028.

The OIF comprises 90 member states and governments, making it a significant international organization. The Francophonie Summit serves as a platform for member states to engage in dialogue and cooperation on various issues, including peace, stability, and sustainable development. Morocco is an active member of the OIF and has been involved in various initiatives and programs within the organization.

El Mansouri's participation in the summit reflects Morocco's commitment to the Francophonie and its values. As Prime Minister, El Mansouri represents King Mohammed VI, who has been a strong advocate for the OIF and its mission. Morocco has hosted various Francophonie events, including the 58th edition of the Habitat and Francophonie Network.

The Francophonie Summit will address various challenges facing the international community, including peace and stability. The theme of the summit, "Reinvesting in Peace for Shared Prosperity and Sustainable Stability," highlights the importance of cooperation and collective action in achieving these goals. The summit's outcomes are expected to contribute to the global effort to promote peace, stability, and sustainable development.

The 20th Francophonie Summit is a significant event that brings together leaders from around the world to discuss pressing global issues. The summit's discussions and outcomes will have implications for the OIF's future actions and its role in international affairs. As a key player in the OIF, Morocco is expected to play an active role in shaping the organization's agenda and initiatives.

Key points

  • The 20th Francophonie Summit will discuss the OIF's orientations and examine key issues in Francophone cooperation.
  • The summit will see the election of the next Secretary-General of La Francophonie for a four-year term from 2027 to 2030.
  • Morocco is an active member of the OIF and has hosted various Francophonie events, including the 58th edition of the Habitat and Francophonie Network.

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SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.