(Phnom Penh): The National Bank of Cambodia and Banque de France, co-hosted the 28th Conference of Central Bank Governors of French-Speaking Countries (Francophone) under the theme “Central Bank Autonomy in the Face of State and Public Expectation,” which took place from 28–31 May 2026 in Phnom Penh under the auspices of Chea Serey, Governor of the National Bank of Cambodia (NBC).
The conference brought together leaders from nearly 30 central banks, including Christine Lagarde, President of the European Central Bank (ECB); François Villeroy de Galhau, Governor of the Bank of France; and Marc-André Gosselin, Deputy Governor of the Bank of Canada. It also included leaders from central banks across Europe, the Americas, Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and the Pacific, including representatives from Belgium and Madagascar.
During this landmark international event, the governors exchanged views and discussed key issues relating to the scope of central bank independence in the context of evolving global economic and social dynamics, which have increasingly placed central banks under higher expectations from governments and the public.
The Conference of Central Bank Governors of French-Speaking Countries was established in 1994 at the initiative of Banque de France to serve as an annual platform for dialogue and the exchange of experiences on economic, monetary, and financial issues. The conference has also contributed significantly to strengthening cooperation among central banks, particularly those within the Francophone community
Cambodia's selection as host for this international conference was deliberate. Over the past decade, the country's financial sector has undergone a remarkable transformation, characterised by the rapid expansion of digital payment systems, significant improvements in financial inclusion, and the introduction of innovations such as the Bakong payment system, all of which have attracted considerable international interest.
The National Bank of Cambodia (NBC) has effectively maintained exchange rate stability, controlled inflation, and preserved adequate international reserves. Additionally, financial inclusion has broadened significantly across all segments of society, facilitated by the growth and enhancement of formal financial services offered by an increasing number of banking and financial institutions. The NBC leadership has also become more prominent in global policy discussions and international settings.
These accomplishments have positioned Cambodia as an appropriate host for the 28th Conference and established it as a model of leadership at a time of numerous global challenges, including geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainties, energy crises, and climate change.
This event also enhances the reputation of both Cambodia and the NBC on the international stage. The European Central Bank's official website features Christine Lagarde's keynote address at the opening ceremony. Global leaders, policymakers, business executives, investors, and heads of international institutions are among the millions who visit the website. Further exposure should elevate Cambodia's international profile.
Through her official Facebook account, Christine Lagarde expressed her appreciation for participating in the 28th Francophone Central Bank Governors' Conference in Phnom Penh, despite her busy May schedule.
Lagarde characterised the conference as an invaluable platform for central bank leaders from Francophone countries to exchange insights on current economic conditions and challenges.
She also commended the National Bank of Cambodia for its effective organisation of the conference. During her visit, she toured the Preah Srey Içanavarman Museum of Economy and Money (SOSORO Museum) alongside Governor Chea Serey.
Governor Chea Serey, recognised internationally for her leadership in central banking alongside Christine Lagarde, described Lagarde's presence as a rare and beneficial opportunity for both the conference and Cambodia as a whole. She expressed deep gratitude to Lagarde for her participation in Cambodia and the event.
=FRESH NEWS
