Rwanda Hosts OIF Executive Committee Meeting, Strengthens Ties with Cambodia

Kigali, November 17, 2025 - Rwanda hosted a series of high-level diplomatic engagements on November 18, 2025, as the country prepared to welcome the 46th Council of Ministers of the Organization of French-Speaking Countries (OIF).

In Kigali, Prime Minister Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva received Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Cambodia, Prak Sokhonn, to discuss expanding bilateral relations. The meeting focused on enhancing cooperation across several sectors and was highlighted by the signing of two new agreements: an Agreement on Consultative Relations and an Agreement on the abolition of visas for holders of diplomatic and service passports.

The leaders also discussed preparations for the upcoming 46th OIF Council of Ministers, which is scheduled to begin in Kigali the following day. Deputy Prime Minister Prak Sokhonn praised Rwanda for its warm reception of participants and the smooth organization of the event. Prime Minister Nsengiyumva expressed gratitude to Cambodia, which is set to assume the presidency of the Francophonie, wishing it success in hosting the 20th Francophonie Summit.

On the same day, the OIF Executive Committee convened in Kigali for its 132nd session, chaired by Secretary General Louise Mushikiwabo. The session reviewed progress on previous decisions and considered new initiatives for upcoming programs. The CPF Council, consisting of Permanent Representatives, Ambassadors, and Heads of Mission from member states, serves as one of the OIF’s primary decision-making bodies.

Hosting the meeting in Kigali reflects recognition of Rwanda’s growing role in advancing Francophone culture and language, following previous occasions when the country hosted major OIF events. The meeting also helped finalize the agenda for the 46th Council of Ministers, which will emphasize strengthening cooperation between member states, promoting technology, and enhancing the role of women, youth, and culture in development. This year’s conference coincides with the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Conference on the Advancement of Women, aligned with the theme: “30 Years After Beijing, the Role of Women in Francophonie.”

The OIF brings together 93 countries, including 56 full members, 5 associate members, and 32 observers, representing over 321 million French speakers worldwide. Rwanda has been a member for 55 years, joining shortly after the organization was established in 1970.