Australian Ambassador Justin Whyatt recently lauded Cambodia for its proactive approach in drawing international investment, expressing particular enthusiasm for the ‘Funan Techo Canal’ project, which he anticipates will stand as a landmark development for Cambodia.
During a visit to Sun Chanthol, Deputy Prime Minister and First Vice President of the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC), accompanied by senior embassy personnel, Ambassador Whyatt acknowledged Cambodia’s strategic efforts in investor attraction. He also commended the ‘Funan Techo Canal’ project for its potential to enhance Cambodian business landscapes.
Deputy Prime Minister Chanthol outlined the Royal Government’s strategies to entice investment flows, noting a significant rise in investment projects. In 2023, Cambodia welcomed 268 new investment ventures, totaling nearly $4.9 billion in capital, a substantial increase from $4 billion in the preceding year. January 2024 saw 32 new projects, marking a considerable uptick from the same period in the previous year, with expectations of continued growth despite global economic uncertainties.
To mitigate shipping expenses, the Cambodian government has unveiled a Comprehensive Master Plan On Cambodian Transit and Logistics System spanning 2023-2033. Deputy Prime Minister Chanthol also updated the Ambassador on the ‘Funan Techo Canal’ project’s progress and shared Cambodia’s ambition to derive 70% of its energy from clean sources by 2030.
Australia’s historical contribution to Cambodia’s development, nearing $2 billion over five decades, has significantly supported the nation’s reconstruction, including key sectors like infrastructure, demining, agriculture, health, and education.
In August of the previous year, Australia introduced a new international development policy with over 30 commitments aimed at enhancing the effectiveness, responsiveness, and transparency of its development programs. This policy underscores climate action, gender equality, locally-led development, and strategic planning revitalization.
Australia has notably been Cambodia’s principal ally in energy sector reforms, particularly in increasing renewable energy’s proportion within the national energy portfolio. Cambodia’s ‘Power Development Plan (PDP) 2022-2040’ aligns with its commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, proposing a significant boost in renewable energy sources, including solar and hydroelectric power, to ensure a sustainable and environmentally friendly energy future.
Source: Khmer Times
