Phnom Penh (FN), Jan. 10 - Sun Chanthol, Minister of Public Works and Transports, said that China is an important partner for Cambodia in the development of infrastructure, which is an essential element in promoting economic growth and reducing poverty.

He added that infrastructure such as roads, bridges, railways, and ports are absolutely necessary for Cambodia's socio-economic development.

"The cooperation between Cambodia and China in the infrastructure sector is perfect, as most of Cambodia's roads are built under concessional loans and grants from China,” stated Senior Minister Sun Chanthol.

He indicated that there were more than 2,000 kilometers of major bridges across seven rivers and a new container port of the Phnom Penh Autonomous Port is built under Chinese aid. In addition, China also provided technical assistance and training to logistics officials in Cambodia.

China will invest in a new international airport project and a 190-kilometer highway project from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville. The BOT concession agreement (construction, operation, transfer) will soon be signed between the Cambodian government and Chinese companies.

"The new airport is very important to deal with the increasing number of tourists to the World Heritage site of Angkor. For the Phnom Penh-Sihanouk highway project, it will be the most important means of economic development as it combines the economic parameters of Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville,” he added.

The Chinese government has provided loans to build roads and bridges in Cambodia for a total of more than $2 billion.
=FRESH NEWS