Cambodian Minister of Environment Eang Sophalleth and Japanese Ambassador to Cambodia Ueno Atsushi presided over the signing ceremony for a Japanese grant assistance project between the Ministry of Environment and the Embassy of Japan. The agreement focuses on the reuse of Japanese waste collection trucks in 10 districts and cities across seven provinces in Cambodia.
Ambassador Ueno emphasized Cambodia’s rapid development in recent years and highlighted the significance of the project. Supported by Osaka City, the initiative will provide waste collection trucks designed to navigate narrow roads while efficiently transporting large volumes of rubbish. This collaboration aims to create a cleaner and healthier environment for the Cambodian people.
Minister Eang Sophalleth hailed the agreement as a significant milestone in Cambodia’s environmental protection efforts. He underscored the importance of comprehensive policies and collaborative measures to improve the management of urban solid waste. He also expressed deep gratitude to Japan for its consistent support, including the past provision of 20 waste collection trucks. For 2024, Japan has granted an additional 10 trucks to enhance garbage collection and transportation in Cambodian cities and districts, ensuring waste is managed efficiently and hygienically.
The minister extended his thanks to all institutions and organizations that have contributed to the Ministry of Environment’s campaigns, particularly the “Cleanliness” campaign. This initiative is a central component of the Environmental Chakra Strategy, which aims to promote sustainable cleanliness across the nation.
Looking ahead, the Ministry of Environment is preparing a strategic action plan titled “Cleaning National Roads 3, 4, 41, and 51.” This plan focuses on improving environmental sanitation, garbage collection, and storage in Phnom Penh, Kandal Province, Takeo Province, Kampong Speu Province, Kampot Province, Koh Kong Province, and Preah Sihanouk Province. The goal is to ensure that cities, districts, and khans along these national roads are clean and free from rubbish and plastic waste by 2025.
This partnership between Cambodia and Japan marks a crucial step toward building sustainable and cleaner communities, benefiting the environment and the well-being of the Cambodian people.