Phnom Penh (FN), Apr. 26 – Cambodian Senate President, Samdech Techo Hun Sen underlined that in addressing the Funan-Techo canal issue, Samdech did not incite hatred towards the Vietnamese people among Cambodians. Rather, he urged both sides to consider the impacts.
Samdech Techo spoke on Friday (Apr. 26) during his gala dinner with Cambodian Oknha Association at Garden City Hotel Phnom Penh.
The lower dam's construction has led to flooding in Cambodian provinces, a concern not previously raised. Hence, it's imperative for the Vietnamese side to acknowledge this aspect as well, Samdech Techo added.
"I do not urge the Cambodian people to hate the Vietnamese people, but to ask the Vietnamese people to do the same by considering each other's interests," Samdech Techo said.
Samdech Techo added that Viet Nam has prospered due to its protection of its people's interests, exemplified by numerous dam constructions. During late July and early August, when floods threaten their harvests, Viet Nam strategically closes dams to safeguard their rice and crops, causing floods in Cambodian provinces bordering Viet Nam, notably in Kandal, Prey Veng, Svay Rieng, Takeo, and Kampot.
At the same time, Samdech Techo also instructed the Mekong Delta Development Research Institute (MDI) of Can Tho University to look into this matter, while the study data at the Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology of Cambodia is still in the hands of Cambodia.
On the occasion, Samdech Techo Hun Sen underscored that he had not addressed this issue previously, but felt compelled to speak up today to ensure the Vietnamese side does not solely prioritise its own interests. The kingdom suddenly faced with aggressive moves from the Vietnamese side, including accusations over military implications and other unresolved issues. He expressed hope that Vietnamese leaders would begin to understand the situation.
Samdech Techo continued, “there would be no further negotiation regarding the digging of the Funan-Techo canal." He asserted that this project solely pertains to Cambodia and does not impact any other nation. Its purpose is solely for the collective benefit of all involved.
=FRESH NEWS
