OIF Summit in Cambodia To Cost €100M

The Organisation internationale de la Francophonie (OIF) leaders, including Administrator Caroline St-Hilaire and President of the Summit Secretariat Sophea EAT, have signed an agreement in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, to support the 20th edition of the summit. The event is scheduled to take place in three days. The agreement concerns the OIF's financial support to Cambodia for organizing the major event.

The estimated budget for the 20th OIF Summit in Phnom Penh is close to €100 million, based on costs for previous editions. A large portion of the budget is allocated to security, comprising 5,000 Cambodian personnel, 500 French and Canadian experts, dedicated command centers, surveillance drones, and anti-drone barriers. This significant allocation ensures a secure environment for the high-profile attendees.

More than 20 countries have confirmed that their top leaders, including heads of state, presidents, and prime ministers, will attend the 20th Francophonie Summit scheduled for November 14 to 16. The Cambodian Information Ministry reported that 78 of the 90 expected countries had confirmed their participation. This high level of participation underscores the significance of the event.

French President Emmanuel Macron's attendance will add significance to the occasion, as he will also make an official visit to Cambodia. His visit will be the first by a French president to Cambodia in 60 years and only the second by a French head of state. This visit highlights the importance of strengthening bilateral relations between France and Cambodia.

The OIF summit brings together leaders from French-speaking countries to discuss global issues and promote cooperation. The event provides a platform for countries to share experiences, address common challenges, and foster economic and cultural ties. The summit's theme and agenda are expected to focus on pressing global issues.

The Cambodian government has made significant preparations to host the summit, including security arrangements and infrastructure development. The event is expected to promote Cambodia's image and boost its international reputation. The summit will also provide opportunities for Cambodia to engage with other countries and strengthen its diplomatic relations.

The 20th Francophonie Summit is a significant event that will bring together leaders from around the world to discuss pressing global issues. With a strong lineup of attendees and a substantial budget allocated to security and logistics, the event is set to be a success. The summit's outcomes are expected to have a lasting impact on global cooperation and development.

Key points

• The 20th Francophonie Summit in Cambodia is set to cost €100 million.
• 20 countries have confirmed top leader attendance at the summit.
• French President Emmanuel Macron will make an official visit to Cambodia, his first in 60 years.