Spanning approximately 10,000 square metres in the Wat Botum Gardens in the heart of Phnom Penh, the ‘Village de la Francophonie” will offer visitors a vibrant showcase of the cultures, traditions, gastronomy, tourism potential and achievements of the Francophone world, featuring exhibitions, national pavilions, conferences and artistic performances.
The five-day event, running from Nov. 13 to 17, is open to the public free of charge and is expected to welcome approximately 100,000 visitors from Cambodia and abroad, according to H.E. Mrs. Ing Kantha Phavi, Minister of Women’s Affairs and Chair of the Sub-Commission in charge of side events of the 20th Francophonie Summit.
Conceived as a space for cultural discovery, exchange and cooperation, the village brough together seven main components, reflecting the strategic priorities of the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF), particularly inclusivity and accessibility, with special attention to women and young people.
One of the main attractions is the 73 pavilions representing Francophone countries and partners, where visitors can explore the diverse cultures, traditions and identities of the Francophone community, she said.
The Pavilion of the Kingdom of Cambodia will showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage, tourism potential and economic and social progress achieved through peace and stability. Meanwhile, the OIF Pavilion will present the achievements of Francophone cooperation and highlight its future prospects, H.E. Mrs. Ing Kantha Phavi added.
Besides, she continued, the village also features 130 exhibition booths displaying the expertise, products and initiatives of Cambodian and international institutions, businesses, artisans and development partners. These exhibitions provide a platform for showcasing innovation, exchanging knowledge, promoting local products and exploring opportunities for cooperation among members of the Francophone community.
Furthermore, food lovers will also have the opportunity to discover the culinary diversity of the Francophone world at the Gastronomy Village, which comprises 30 booths offering a journey through different flavours and culinary traditions. The gastronomic section is expected to provide visitors with an opportunity to experience the food cultures of participating countries while promoting cultural connections through cuisine.
H.E. Minister said beyond exhibitions and cultural displays, the “Village de la Francophonie” will host 30 conferences and roundtable discussions, creating opportunities for dialogue, sharing experiences and exchanging ideas on issues of common interest.
These discussions will contribute to strengthening cooperation and understanding among participating countries, institutions and stakeholders, she said.
Adding to the lively atmosphere, the village will also feature 50 artistic and cultural performances, showcasing the talents and cultural expressions of the Francophone community. Through music, dance and other artistic presentations, visitors will have the opportunity to experience the richness and diversity of Francophone cultures.
The overall design of the village also reflects Cambodia’s cultural identity and its commitment to peace and friendship. Visitors will enter through a monumental gateway inspired by the Tonle Om Gate, one of the five gates of the ancient city of Angkor Thom, featuring smiling faces reminiscent of the iconic Bayon Temple.
At the centre of the main walkway stands a white dove, symbolising peace, harmony, solidarity and mutual understanding.
These cultural symbols bring to life the theme inspired by His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni’s words at the 19th Francophonie Summit: “The Khmer smile will be the smile of La Francophonie,” she said.
Through its seven main components, the “Village de la Francophonie” is not only a cultural exhibition space but also a platform connecting people, promoting tourism, encouraging innovation and strengthening economic, educational and cultural cooperation across the Francophone world.
