China-Cambodia Times: Second Section of the Prek Kdam–Phnom Penh Canal Project Breaks Ground; Ambassador Wang Wenbin: This Long-Awaited Dream of Cambodia Aids in Unlocking Southward Maritime Access
Phnom Penh, China-Cambodia Times News — Ambassador Wang Wenbin of China to Cambodia stated that constructing the Prek Kdam–Phnom Penh Canal is a long-cherished aspiration of the Cambodian people. As Cambodia’s first inland waterway project connecting its internal river systems with maritime routes, this initiative will help Cambodia develop a comprehensive network of inland waterways, opening up new pathways for the country to integrate into regional and even global shipping systems.
On the morning of April 11, Ambassador Wang Wenbin co-hosted the groundbreaking ceremony for the second section of the Prek Kdam–Phnom Penh Canal (also known as the "Funan-Dek Chai Integrated Water Conservancy Project") alongside Prime Minister Hun Manet.
In his speech, Ambassador Wang emphasized that upon completion, the second phase of the Funan-Dek Chai Integrated Water Conservancy Project will connect Cambodia’s inland ports with the southwestern coast, establishing a new southward maritime access route for Cambodia’s landlocked regions. As the nation’s first inland waterway project linking internal rivers with sea lanes, it will facilitate the development of a fully functional inland navigation network, fill gaps in the transportation system, ensure maritime safety, and open new paths for Cambodia's integration into regional and global water transport systems.
"The construction of the Funan-Dek Chai Integrated Water Conservancy Project has been a long-held dream of the Cambodian people. Last April, during a joint statement issued by China and Cambodia, Beijing reaffirmed its support for Cambodia’s efforts to build the project in line with feasible and sustainable principles."
Wang Wenbin noted that today’s official start of the second phase marks significant progress in bilateral cooperation and a promising step forward.
He explained that the main components of Phase II are being implemented by a joint venture company established by China and Cambodia, under commercial principles using a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, with Cambodia holding 51% equity and China 49%. China stands ready to work closely with Cambodia to support both sides’ enterprises in strengthening collaboration based on feasibility and sustainability, and to provide necessary support for the construction of Phase II.
Wang Wenbin pointed out that the Khmer people are a great nation with a long history and splendid civilization. Over the past more than 30 years, Cambodia has maintained peace and stability while experiencing rapid economic growth. The country’s GDP has surged from USD 2.79 billion in 1994 to USD 46.35 billion in 2024, while per capita GDP increased from USD 302 in 1994 to USD 2,713 in 2024—achieving remarkable developmental accomplishments worthy of pride.
Wang Wenbin expressed confidence that under the protection of King Norodom Sihamoni and leadership of Prince Hun Sen and Prime Minister Hun Manet, the Cambodian people possess the wisdom and capability to overcome all challenges and successfully achieve national development and national rejuvenation goals.
He highlighted that China and Cambodia are steadfast friends based on equality and genuine mutual trust. On April 1, the Sihanoukville-Mekong Friendship Bridge in Kratie, built by Chinese enterprises, officially opened to traffic; on April 10, the upper Dakaite hydropower storage station, invested and constructed by Chinese firms, commenced operations; and today, the second phase of the Funan-Dek Chai Integrated Water Conservancy Project officially broke ground.
He noted that with support and assistance from China, Cambodians now have over ten new river-crossing bridges, the national electrification rate has risen from 50% to 95.88%, and renewable energy accounts for the second-highest share among ASEAN countries. The century-old dream of building an inland waterway system is gradually becoming a reality.
Wang Wenbin stressed that China has always been a trustworthy partner for Cambodia. At the same time, Cambodia has consistently shown firm support for China on issues concerning its core interests, including Taiwan, Xinjiang, and Tibet.
"Our two countries truly serve as a model of mutual trust and mutual support between nations."
Wang Wenbin said that China will continue to firmly support Cambodia’s development and revitalization. Together with Cambodia, we will deepen the implementation of outcomes from President Xi Jinping’s visit to Cambodia, continuously enrich the "Diamond Six-Point" cooperation framework, accelerate the construction of a comprehensive China-Cambodia community with a shared future for the new era, and better benefit the people of both countries.
This major project has a total investment of USD 1.156 billion, with Chinese investors holding a 49% stake, and the implementation work entrusted to China Road and Bridge Corporation, a subsidiary of China Communications Construction Company (CCCC).
The Prek Kdam–Phnom Penh Canal began construction in August last year, connecting Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, with Sihanoukville Port, spanning 180 kilometers across four provinces. It will transform Cambodia’s inland water transport system and enhance its economic autonomy.
Source: China-Cambodia Times
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1862286794587140/
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