(Kampot): Sun Chanthol, First Vice-Chairman of the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC) and Vice-Chairman of the Special Commission on the Funan Techo Canal, reaffirmed on Friday (Jul. 25) that the canal project remains fully on track despite the ongoing border dispute with Thailand.

Speaking during a site inspection in Kep Province, alongside Minister of Public Works and Transport Peng Ponea, Sun Chanthol reviewed the final phase of alignment marking for the canal route, accompanied by senior officials from key ministries.

“There is no issue. The construction and national development efforts are progressing as planned. Everything is on schedule for completion by 2028. This canal will enhance our independence and strengthen inland waterway transport, with direct access to the sea,” Sun Chanthol stated.

He echoed Prime Minister Hun Manet’s strategic vision of “bringing the sea closer to the river” to create a more efficient and cost-effective logistics network.

The Funan Techo Canal project is a historic endeavour by the Cambodian people for future generations, with its groundbreaking ceremony held on 5 August 2024. It aims to connect waterways between rivers and the sea of Cambodia, passing through Kandal, Takeo, Kampot, and Kep provinces. It spans approximately 180 kilometres. The project is expected to cost about USD 1.7 billion and has been studied in detail.

The project is scheduled to take 48 months to complete, with an expected finish by 2028.
=FRESH NEWS