Phnom Penh (FN), Apr. 28 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has stated that, according to the 1995 Mekong Agreement, the excavation of the Funan Techo canal does not necessitate Cambodia to seek approval from any other country, but rather only to notify and provide detail information to the Joint Committee of the Mekong River Commission.

The premier spoke on Sunday (Apr. 28) during his meeting with more than 5,000 representatives of informal economy at OCIC, Phnom Penh.

The construction of the Funan Techo canal carries historical significance and leadership responsibility, hence extensive studies have been conducted to assess its impacts, the premier added. Building this canal is essential to safeguarding Cambodia's national interests.

On the occasion, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet underlined he will carry on the mission of his predecessor, Samdech Techo Hun Sen, to realise the Funan Techo canal project.

Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet further underlined, “Other countries are undertaking similar canal projects, constructing dams, and developing hydropower. Cambodia is no exception. This canal is imperative for Cambodia’s socio-economic interests.”

Addressing criticism from foreign experts regarding the Funan Techo canal project diverting fresh water into the sea, Samdech Thipadei pointed out that the Mekong and Bassac rivers already discharge millions of cubic meters of fresh water into the sea daily. He highlighted that the proportion of water diverted through the Funan-Techo canal project is minuscule compared to the total volume discharged by both rivers, thanks to the presence of sluice gates for protection.

Premier Hun Manet underlined that the Funan Techo canal project will facilitate the flow of fresh water into various irrigation systems to support agriculture and water transport.
=FRESH NEWS