A delegation representing the State of Louisiana and the Council for the Development of French in Louisiana will travel to Phnom Penh, Cambodia, this week to participate in the 20th Francophonie Summit of the International Organization of La Francophonie, held from November 14-16, 2026.
The gathering brings together heads of state and leaders from 90 member countries and governments representing nearly 400 million French speakers worldwide.
This year marks a historic milestone for the host country, as the Kingdom of Cambodia welcomes the Francophonie Summit and the 48th Francophonie Ministerial Conference for the first time in its history. This event also marks the first time the summit has returned to the Asia-Pacific region since Vietnam hosted it in 1997.
"Louisiana’s French roots make us who we are, and they give our state a distinct identity recognized around the globe," said Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser.
"Having our seat at the table with 90 French-speaking nations opens doors for tourism, international commerce, and cultural exchange. Every time we share our stories, our music, and our food with the world, we invite more people to come experience Louisiana in person."
Louisiana was granted observer status within the OIF in 2018, making it the only American state with official representation in the international body. Participation in the biennial summit plays a critical role in preserving the state's linguistic heritage, supporting immersion education, keeping Louisiana visible in international affairs, and building lasting partnerships across continents.
Throughout the gathering, the delegation will also host visitors at the official Louisiana tent inside the Village de la Francophonie, a multi-day international cultural pavilion where countries showcase their traditions, cuisine, arts, and tourism offerings.
The 20th Summit centers on the theme "Reinvest in Peace for Shared Prosperity and Lasting Stability" and coincides with an election year for the OIF, where member states will select the organization’s Secretary General and set strategic policies for education, economic development, and multilateral cooperation.