Phnom Penh (FN), Apr. 10 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet stated that since 30 January 2024, following the annual meeting of the Ministry of Agriculture, a joint working group for the Tonle Sap Lake has been diligently active for 72 days. This joint team, led by Minister of Land Management, Urban Planning and Construction Say Sam Al, along with the Minister of Agriculture, the Minister of Water Resources, and other relevant ministries, institutions, and local authorities, has achieved significant progress.

The premier spoke on Wednesday (Apr. 10) during the closing of 2023 annual meeting of Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology at Sokha Phnom Penh Hotel.

Prime Minister Hun Manet underscored that the joint working group has undertaken various tasks, including verifying relevant data concerning the Tonle Sap Lake area, have been made to finalize the mapping updates for Zones 1, 2, and 3, establishing border posts, and coordinating registration efforts within the Tonle Sap area.

Samdech Thipadei further stated that concurrent to the border demarcation in Zones 1, 2, and 3 of the Tonle Sap Lake, measures have been taken by the Ministry, professional institutions, and provincial authorities surrounding the Tonle Sap to prevent further encroachment. Notably, recent actions have led to the apprehension of officials and merchants in Kampong Chhnang province.

On the occasion, Samdech Thipadei underscored the importance of unwavering commitment to protecting the conservation land of the Tonle Sap Lake, calling for continued efforts without hesitation. He urged the people and all stakeholders to collaborate in safeguarding the Tonle Sap Lake for the collective welfare of millions of people nationwide.

The premier expressed gratitude to officials from ministries, institutions, local authorities, and the armed forces for their contributions to the conservation of the Tonle Sap Lake, which have yielded positive outcomes.
=FRESH NEWS