At Siem Reap, the Francophonie Celebrates: Meeting with François Schnoebelen, Artisan of a Cultural Dialogue

Christophe Gargiulo
Nov 16, 2025
4 min read

President of the Siem Reap section of the France-Cambodia Chamber of Commerce and Industry, François Schnoebelen orchestrated for the second time, with his teams, the Village of the Francophonie, carried this year by a new breath.

Indeed, for this edition which took place from November 14 to 16, 2025, the Village of the Francophonie shone more than ever, the fruit of passionate work orchestrated by François Schnoebelen, president of the Siem Reap section of the France-Cambodia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCIFC).

He recounts the evolution, the soul, and the ambitions of this unmissable event, as a prelude to the Francophonie Summit 2026 which will probably make Cambodia a solid showcase of Francophone culture in Southeast Asia.

An event in full expansion

"This second edition of the Village of the Francophonie clearly marks a turning point," confides François Schnoebelen.

"We have moved up a level. The budget has increased, new public sponsors, like Canada and Quebec, came to support the event. France, for its part, is largely subsidizing this edition. There is a real desire to make the event sustainable, with an annual dynamic."

This guarantee of sustainability offers a reinforced political and economic dimension, strengthening ties between Francophone institutions and local actors, both public and private.

A strong logistical and institutional anchorage

The role of the Paul Dubrule School, of which François Schnoebelen is also director, was decisive in the logistical organization, bringing means and expertise often inaccessible to small structures:

“All the logistics, from tents to electricity, were handled by the school. This is a significant advantage in this type of event, especially in managing infrastructure over two full days, with a team mobilized late into the night.”

Moreover, the provincial administration increased its support this year:

This shows major recognition and strengthened collaboration between partners.”] These supports allowed better securing of the venue and improved accessibility, essential elements for the quality of the experience offered to visitors.

A setting designed for comfort and experience

Reflecting on the place and time where the Village takes place was crucial after the first edition, judged too exposed to the sun.

“Last year, we had installed the stalls near a large hotel, but the heat from the stone and the lack of shade made the experience painful for visitors and exhibitors. This year, we favored the riverbank, with its trees that act as natural air conditioners. It’s a more welcoming, pleasant setting, closer to the heart of urban life.”

Located near bars and the shopping street, the event benefits from greater pedestrian traffic, favorable to attendance and conviviality.

Francophonie as a vector of diversity and exchange

Beyond a simple commercial market, François Schnoebelen insists on the cultural and fraternal dimension.

“As the leader of a local NGO, I am very attached to education and culture. The Village of the Francophonie seeks to promote an inclusive Francophonie, which fully integrates Cambodia into its multilateral dialogue. It is a space where cultures, flavors, and talents meet, giving a place both to the French and local partners who share Francophone values.”

This approach aims to naturally attract public institutions as well as international organizations, reinforcing the project’s influence and social impact.

A feast for the senses and flavors

Culinary diversity illustrated this spirit of exchange well: French cheeses, Breton galettes, kebabs, and traditional Cambodian dishes mingled to offer a true gastronomic journey.

“The governor also praised this aspect, which opens the local population to new culinary experiences, while fitting into the preparation for the Francophonie Summit.” This meeting of cuisines gave a lively, joyful, and tasty face to the Francophonie as it is lived today.

A rich and striking artistic program

The show held a central place in the three-day program with more than fifteen artistic events including concerts, contemporary dances, and street performances. A highlight was the presence of Fabienne Thibeault, a Francophone song legend, official ambassador, and honorary patron of the AFAL (Francophone Association of Friendship and Liaison).

“Thanks to our proximity with Paul Dubrulle, she could participate in the gala dinner and then perform at the opening ceremony. Her moving performance, accompanied by little sacred dancers, deeply touched the audience. It was a moment of grace and communion, emblematic of what we seek to create here.”

Popular and economic success

The numbers speak for themselves: nearly 600 seats almost all occupied during the inaugural ceremony, and an overall attendance estimated between 2,000 and 2,500 visitors, an attendance far exceeding expectations. The stalls reported impressive sales, some selling out their stock the first evening. Our estimation about the number of visitors during the 3 days is between 15000 and 20000.

“Crepes, Breton galettes, cocktails, kebabs... many stood full. The exhibitors are very satisfied, as well as Sofitel, a partner of the event, which reported a great atmosphere and excellent sales.”

This economic and human success strengthens the chamber of commerce’s desire to make it a must-attend annual event in Siem Reap.

Preparing the future, establishing Francophonie sustainably

The event is part of the dynamic of the 18th Francophonie Summit, which Cambodia will host for the first time in 2026.

“Our Village is a showcase, a kind of living laboratory in the preparation of this summit. We work closely with the embassy, the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Tourism, as well as the provincial government. This partnership is essential to establish our credibility and our role as organizers in this region.”

François emphasizes that even though the major event in 2026 is coordinated at another level, the chamber will continue to develop parallel initiatives to promote Francophone culture and economy.

The philosophy of the Village is to bring all generations together around common values. Children benefit from creative workshops and traditional games, while adults enjoy culinary, artisanal, artistic activities and professional networking.

“It’s a moment of diversity, fraternity, cultural dialogue, and flavors. An invitation to discovery and conviviality that goes beyond the French language alone.”

François Schnoebelen and his team embody the energy and vision of committed actors to make Francophonie a powerful cultural, economic and social lever in Siem Reap. The Village of the Francophonie 2025 was both a festive celebration and a structuring project in the preparation for the great 2026 event.

Behind the stalls and shows, a true cultural dialogue was established, placing Cambodia at the heart of a diverse and dynamic community ready to shine far beyond its borders.