Phnom Penh & En Images: A festive and inspiring rentrée for the French-speaking business community
- Christophe Gargiulo
- Sep 18, 2025
- 2 min read
On Wednesday 17 September 2025, more than 180 people gathered at the Élysée Tower on the Koh Pich peninsula to celebrate the return to business and conviviality of the Franco-Khmer business community at the Back to Business Party 2025. This venue, with its very French architecture and atmosphere, provided the ideal setting for what has become a not-to-be-missed event.
One of the highlights of the evening was the arrival of the new French ambassador, who emphasised the strategic importance of the ties between France and Cambodia, and reminded the audience of the dynamism of the French-speaking business community in the Kingdom.
In his speech, Cyril Girot, President of the France-Cambodia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCIFC), recalled the legacy of the success of the 2024 edition and the desire of this evening to further strengthen the bridges between the French and Cambodian business communities.
He praised the dynamism of the companies present and their key role in the Kingdom's economic development, highlighting leading sectors such as the hotel, automotive, health, IT and construction industries.
For Mr Girot, the Back to Business Party is more than just a festive gathering: ‘It's a space for exchange, innovation and opportunities, where every meeting can become a fruitful collaboration.’
The venue, the Élysée Tower, with its very Parisian feel, was enhanced by a vast catering area. Three great names in Franco-Cambodian gastronomy were on hand: Maison Kayser, the emblem of French artisan bakery, Thalias Hospitality, renowned for its refined gastronomic establishments such as Topaz and Malis, and Paysan Breton, the emblematic supplier of European cheeses and dairy products.
This culinary diversity offered guests a rich and varied taste experience, combining traditional flavours with gourmet innovations.
The food corner offered a generous selection, included in the entrance fee, comprising three creative cocktails from Celliers d'Asie, an elegant glass of wine from Maison Castel, two tasty savoury snacks and a delicate sweet snack. These refined choices were particularly appreciated by the participants, who were able to enjoy these dishes in a convivial and festive atmosphere, enlivened by the music of DJ Yoyo.
The atmosphere was warm and cheerful, with professional exchanges mingling with smiles and laughter, testifying to a close-knit community looking to the future. Each guest had the opportunity to recount their holiday, make new contacts, exchange ideas and celebrate shared successes.
The Back to Business Party 2025 thus confirmed its place as a flagship event for the Franco-Khmer business community, a solid cultural and economic bridge between France and Cambodia.
The photographs show a polished and energetic event. Clear sponsorship, good organization, and a strong community focus can make this type of gathering especially effective.
The return of a large business gathering after a quieter period is worth celebrating. It gives companies an opportunity to reconnect, exchange ideas, and explore new opportunities.
This event seems to have balanced professional networking with a welcoming social atmosphere. That combination can help participants build more natural and lasting connections.
It is encouraging to see sponsors and community organizations supporting an event focused on business renewal. Strong local partnerships often determine whether these gatherings succeed.
The French-inspired architecture appears to have been a fitting choice for the gathering. A well-selected venue can make networking feel more relaxed and engaging.