AKP Phnom Penh, March 01, 2025  --

The European Union Delegation to Cambodia, in partnership with the French Embassy, the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts, and Bophana Centre presented the 16th annual European Film Festival Cambodia (EUFF 2025).

The festival's gala premiere took place at the French Institute with the participation by H.E. Hab Touch, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts, H.E. Igor Driesmans, EU Ambassador to Cambodia, ambassadors and representatives of the diplomatic missions to Cambodia, and students.

The event was aimed to engage both Cambodian and expatriate communities and promote cultural exchange between Europe and Cambodia.

The premiere reception included a screening of the French film, “The (in)famous Youssef Salem”.

Following the premiere, the festival will travel to several universities in Phnom Penh, Battambang, and Svay Rieng, bringing European cinema to a young generation of Cambodian university students.

Speaking at the event, H.E. Hab Touch said that event of European Film Festival Cambodia provided knowledge, experiences and studies on social, and culture in the EU to Cambodian students and public.

“The event not only promoted films but also contributed to the ties between people and people, particularly strengthened cultural cooperation between Cambodia and the EU,” H.E. Hab Touch said.

This festival served as a bridge, fostering meaningful dialogue between European and Cambodian cultures, said H.E. Igor Driesmans, EU Ambassador to Cambodia.

"European films not only entertain, but also reflect our societies' realities, encouraging us to think about shared human realities and impressions. Cinema, like all art forms, is also a testament to fundamental freedoms: the freedom of art, creation, and speech,” he said.

This year's film selection has been carefully curated to resonate with Cambodian audiences.

From thought-provoking dramas and light-hearted comedies to family films and animations, there's something for every taste.

"Our aim is for this gala premiere and subsequent university tour to connect European cinema with as many people as possible, but in particular the younger generation that makes up the majority of the Cambodian people," H.E. Ambassador said.

By Chea Vannak