Rwanda's President Kagame Attends 20th OIF Summit in Cambodia

On November 15, 2026, President Paul Kagame and First Lady Jeannette Kagame of Rwanda joined world leaders in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, for the 20th summit of the International Organization of La Francophonie. The event took place at the Chroy Changvar International Convention and Exhibition Centre. The summit was also attended by King Norodom Sihamoni of Cambodia, Prime Minister Hun Manet, French President Emmanuel Macron, and OIF Secretary-General Louise Mushikiwabo.

The 20th OIF summit brought together leaders from countries that use French as an official language to discuss pressing global issues. These issues include security challenges, conflicts, economic instability, and other problems that require international cooperation. French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized the importance of the OIF in addressing these challenges and promoting dialogue, understanding, and cooperation among nations.

In his address, President Macron highlighted the significance of the French language as a tool for fostering dialogue, understanding, and cooperation. He noted that the OIF is not limited to a specific region or country but rather serves as a platform for people and nations from around the world to come together. Macron also recalled the organization's founding in 1970 in Niamey, Niger, and its evolution into a global entity.

OIF Secretary-General Louise Mushikiwabo emphasized the organization's commitment to promoting peace, cooperation, and sustainable development. She noted that the summit's theme, "Building Peace to Achieve Shared Prosperity and Sustainable Security," is particularly relevant in today's world. Mushikiwabo called on member states to work together to address global challenges and promote peace, stability, and prosperity.

The summit also marked a significant milestone for the OIF, as it was the first time the organization had convened in Southeast Asia in nearly 30 years. The last OIF summit in the region was held in Hanoi, Vietnam, in 1997. The event provided a platform for leaders to discuss cooperation in areas such as education, culture, economy, technology, security, and sustainable development.

The attendance of President Kagame and other world leaders at the summit underscores the importance of international cooperation in addressing global challenges. The OIF provides a unique platform for countries that share a common language and cultural heritage to come together and promote peace, understanding, and cooperation.

The 20th OIF summit concluded with a renewed commitment to promoting peace, cooperation, and sustainable development among member states. The organization emphasized the need for countries to work together to address global challenges and promote a more peaceful and prosperous world.

Key points

• President Paul Kagame and First Lady Jeannette Kagame of Rwanda attended the 20th OIF summit in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.