On October 4, the 19th summit of the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF) kicked off in France, drawing attention to the theme of “French Creativity, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship.” This two-day event aims to revitalize the French language, with France taking the lead.
Approximately 30 heads of state and government are attending, including King Norodom Sihamoni of Cambodia, General Secretary and President of Vietnam Nguyen Phu Trong, President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of Canada.
In his opening remarks, French President Emmanuel Macron highlighted the importance of the French language in today’s world, calling it a cornerstone of the OIF. He expressed optimism that French-speaking nations can work together to significantly contribute to global peace.
Macron also addressed the ongoing tensions in Lebanon and the wider Middle East, noting that despite regional unrest, Lebanon maintains a strong connection to France and sent a ministerial representative to the summit. Many observers in the French media anticipate that Lebanon’s crisis will be a key topic among the leaders.
OIF Secretary-General Louise Mushikiwabo, in her speech, emphasized the organization’s mission to promote the French language and advocate for linguistic diversity on the international stage. She pointed out that the OIF operates globally rather than being regionally confined.
According to the official agenda, the summit’s first phase is being held on October 4 in Villecotter, a northern French town known as the “International City of La Francophonie.” Discussions are set to cover the challenges faced by OIF member countries in the digital age. Leaders will then head to Paris for the summit dinner that evening.
Looking ahead to the second phase on October 5, discussions will concentrate on fostering innovation and business activities related to youth employment through the French language. Attendees will also participate in closed-door consultations on multilateralism, with Macron scheduled to hold a press conference following the summit.
Throughout this week, Paris is hosting various cultural and business events related to Francophone nations to complement the summit. On October 3, Macron led the leaders on a visit to an innovation and economy exhibition in Paris.
