Phnom Penh (FN), May. 16 – Cambodian Senate President, Samdech Techo Hun Sen recommended that 16 May 2024 be recorded as the date when Samdech Techo declared that the Funan Techo Canal was a means to strengthen Cambodia's transportation policy independence.

The senate president spoke on Thursday (May 16) in a special message related to the Funan Techo Canal.

Samdech Techo Hun Sen underlined that Cambodia and Viet Nam are neighboring countries that need to build good relations with each other, but like tongues and teeth, occasional conflicts are inevitable. Samdech Techo expressed his belief that the Vietnamese leader wanted Cambodia to be independent in shipping. While Cambodia has good relations with Viet Nam and Viet Nam has good relations with China, there is no reason for any conflict between them.

Samdech Techo Hun Sen underscored, "It is now recorded that today, 16 May 2024, Samdech Techo Hun Sen spoke about political independence regarding water transport. We should not let our friends suffer because of us, nor should we have a hard time because of our friends."

At the same time, Samdech Techo Hun Sen noted that Viet Nam’s concern regarding the Funan Techo Canal is unnecessary. He also thanked the Vietnamese environmentalists who pointed out that the water flowing through the Funan Techo Canal is minimal compared to the amount of water flowing through Viet Nam today.

The Funan Techo Canal Project is a canal initiated entirely by Cambodia, and China is unaware of this. Samdech Techo Hun Sen stated it was foolish to accuse the project of originating from China, as the Funan Techo Canal Project is not part of China's Belt and Road Initiative.

Samdech Techo Hun Sen further underlined that the Funan Techo Canal serves Cambodia's economic interests and political independence. He added that it was a shame for those who claimed the canal project was intended for the movement of naval vessels.

Samdech Techo Hun Sen has urged the Royal Government of Cambodia to begin construction as soon as possible, there is nothing to wait for. He also continued that Cambodia must strive to strengthen its economic and political independence. However, as a poor country, achieving independence is difficult, so every effort must be made to strive for it.
=FRESH NEWS