King Sihamoni Urges Continued Global Support for Cambodia’s Environmental Conservation

King Sihamoni expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries, as well as all leaders and civil servants, for their contributions to agricultural development, food security, and poverty reduction. He praised Arbour Day as a significant cultural event, involving monks, national authorities, and citizens nationwide.

A Call for Continued Support

“Thank you to all the friendly countries and national and international organizations that participated. I call for the continuation of these noble activities to support the efforts of the Royal Government of Cambodia and for the benefit of the whole world,” said the King. He highlighted the necessity of managing, conserving, and developing forest and wildlife resources to ensure environmental and economic sustainability, aligning with the government’s Pentagonal Strategy under Prime Minister Hun Manet’s leadership.

Environmental and Economic Benefits

King Sihamoni underscored the environmental benefits of tree planting, stating, “Planting trees is of great benefit to our country, providing green cover to nature and benefitting all humanity and animals on our planet.” He honored the legacy of the late King Father Norodom Sihanouk, who initiated Arbour Day to inspire and encourage Cambodians to protect and plant trees nationwide.

Achievements and Future Goals

Dith Tina, Minister of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries, highlighted the achievements of the 29th Arbour Day, noting the planting of 3,000 saplings of rosewood and peacock on a 3-hectare area at the Banteay Angkor Forest Extension and Restoration Station. Additionally, the Forestry Administration planted 16,500 mixed saplings on 10 hectares at the Sokrom Forest Extension and Restoration Station in Pursat province.

“As of this year, the Arbour Day has established a total of 475 hectares of plant gardens in 14 provincial capitals. The event has fostered a forest-loving movement and led to the planting of numerous trees nationwide,” said Tina. He reported that by 2024, the Forestry Administration had planted and distributed over 20.50 million seedlings through the state budget, with an annual capacity to plant 500,000 seedlings. Millions of other trees are planted by citizens, excluding fruit trees or other industrial crops.

Takeo’s Commitment to Environmental Conservation

Takeo Provincial Governor Vei Samnang reaffirmed the commitment of leaders, government officials, and citizens to protect, conserve, and restore natural resources through grassroots mobilization and collaboration with public and private institutions and monks.

Cambodia’s Rich Biodiversity

Cambodia is one of Southeast Asia’s most biodiverse countries. The Cardamom Mountains and Virachey National Park are home to a remarkable variety of species, including the Asian elephant, sun and moon bears, and the critically endangered large-antlered muntjac. Cambodia also boasts a rich marine environment, with coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove habitats.

King Norodom Sihamoni’s call to action underscores the importance of shared responsibility in supporting Cambodia’s greening efforts. By continuing to plant trees and conserve natural resources, Cambodia can ensure a sustainable and prosperous future for all.