Phnom Penh (FN), April 28 – Both Cambodia and China believe that current highway construction project from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville as well as the new airport in Siem Reap should be fast tracked in response to growing trade and tourism.  

The concept was agreed upon during the 4th Intergovernmental Coordinating Committee of Cambodia-China at the Peace Palace on Thursday.

“The building of this highway is crucial as the transportation sector in Cambodia has grown significantly,” said Deputy Prime Minister Hor Namhong.

“The tourism sector also continues to develop. The government has made plans to build a new airport in Siem Reap in response to the increasing number of international visitors in Cambodia,” he added.

The budget for the highway construction is $1.9 billion.

The new airport in Siem Reap will cost $900 million with aid coming from China.
 
Regional and international issues, as well as the the premier's scheduled visit to China to formalize agreements between the two countries were discussed at the meeting.

“China has taken on a comprehensive strategic partnership with Cambodia, and continues to support Cambodia's living standard and sustainable development," said Yang Jiechi, advisor to the government of China.
=FRESH NEWS