Torn between hope and despair, these walls of the Embassy of France in Phnom Penh witnessed profound human drama. This is the Embassy of France, a place of diplomacy and refuge. It stands as a symbol of France’s presence in Cambodia. Yet, its history is marked by moments of intense crisis.
Before Cambodia gained independence in 1953, France was represented by a high commissioner. The commissioner used a hotel built for these activities. In 1955, Cambodia requested ownership of the hotel. An agreement granted land and assets in exchange for the property. Construction of the new Embassy of France complex began in 1958. It finished in 1961.
Let’s step back to a dark chapter. By March 1975, operations at the Embassy of France ceased. A Khmer Rouge takeover was expected. After Phnom Penh fell on April 17, the new government restricted embassy reopenings. Jean Dyrac led the remaining staff. The Embassy of France became a refuge. It sheltered 600 foreigners and 1,000 Cambodians.
Imagine the chaos. By April 26, almost all Cambodians were forced out. Only foreign journalists, diplomats, and Cambodian women married to foreigners remained. Dith Pran and Sydney Schanberg sought refuge here. Schanberg later documented the Cambodian genocide. Cambodians were made to leave in waves. Some secretly fled. Six hundred others were handed over to Khmer Rouge authorities.
The eviction of Cambodians is a controversial topic. Billon Ung Boun Hor sued the French government in 1999. Dyrac responded that turning over Cambodians was inevitable. Finally, on April 30, foreigners were removed. They were trucked to the Thailand border by the Khmer Rouge.
After the Khmer Rouge’s fall in 1979, the premises served as an army command post. From 1986 to 1991, the chancery became an orphanage. It housed up to 170 children.
Relations were restored after the 1991 Paris Peace Agreements. Philippe Coste was appointed as a permanent representative. France enhanced its relations with Cambodia. The Embassy of France was initially re-established elsewhere. In 1993, the former premises were renovated. The embassy moved back in 1995. It officially opened in 1996.
During Prince Norodom Ranariddh’s time as prime minister, diplomats faced restrictions. This followed a warning for tourists after assaults. A French woman’s rape by a police officer was concerning. This led to diplomatic tensions between Ranariddh and France. Ambassador Le Lidec took a stricter stance on human rights.
Today, the Embassy of France stands as a testament. It reflects resilience and renewed cooperation. The French have returned in a big way. They are promoting French language and culture in Cambodia. The high whitewashed wall surrounds the complex. It protects a space of historical significance. The Embassy of France is a reminder of Cambodia’s complex past. It highlights the enduring relationship between France and Cambodia.