Phnom Penh:Cambodia continues to uphold its Francophone heritage through various educational initiatives and governmental support, emphasizing its historical ties to the French language and culture.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, Dr. Raoul Jennar, an adviser to the Royal Government of Cambodia, highlighted the significance of Francophonie, describing it as a global community encompassing nearly 400 million people across 90 countries. French is the fourth most widely spoken language globally, with 170 million young learners, supported institutionally by the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF).

Dr. Jennar noted Cambodia's historical role as a founding member of the OIF and emphasized the country's distinctive position in the Francophone community. Until 1975, Cambodia was considered the most Francophone country in Asia, with French integrated into the education system from primary to secondary levels. This legacy is largely attributed to the late King Father Samdech Preah Norodom Sihanouk, who promoted French culture and was instrumental in the country's early participation in Francophone initiatives.

Today, approximately 463,000 Cambodians speak French, making up about 3% of the population. The country hosts three schools accredited by the Agency for French Education Abroad, with the Lycée français René Descartes in Phnom Penh educating nearly 1,300 students. More than 24,000 secondary students, predominantly girls, study French, and 16 bilingual classes help nearly 40,000 young Cambodians enhance their French-language skills.

In higher education, over 700 students pursue French-language studies at institutions like the Royal University of Phnom Penh and the University of Law and Economics. Dr. Jennar also pointed out the unique presence of a significant number of French-speaking ministers within the Cambodian government, spanning various departments including Foreign Affairs, Justice, and Education.