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Let’s dive into theCambodian news ! This week, from December 9 to 15, the Southeast Asian country was the scene of significant events. From politics to economics, including culture, let’s discover together the significant events that shape Cambodia today.
This week, Cambodia has been the scene of significant events that deserve to be highlighted. Developments within the monarchy to initiatives in terms of policy and of economic development, through efforts to conservation and of fight against illegal immigration, this decryption offers you an immersion in Cambodian news from December 9 to 15.
Notable events within the monarchy
A major event marked this week with the appointment by the King Norodom Sihamoni of Venerable Non Nget as Supreme Grand Patriarch of the Mohanikaya order. This promotion follows the death of his predecessor, Tep Vong, last February. Almost nine months after holding this position on an interim basis, Non Nget officially takes the reins, also accompanied by the rise in rank of four other high-ranking monks.
Politics and diplomacy: The United States invites itself to Cambodia
This week, the relationship between Cambodia and the United States took center stage with the visit of the USS Savannah at the naval base of Ream. The move appears to demonstrate Washington’s efforts to restore friendly ties with Phnom Penh, despite a history of concerns over deals with China. Although Cambodia and China have denied any existence of an agreement marking a Chinese military presence on the base, the repercussions of this visit must be closely monitored.
Furthermore, the President of the Senate, Hun Sen, recalled the 69th anniversary of Cambodia’s membership in the United Nations, praising the country’s contribution to international peacekeeping operations. For his part, the Prime Minister Hun Manet also marked this event with his congratulations.
Government initiatives: Fight against human trafficking
The Prime Minister Hun Manet addressed the sensitive issue of human trafficking during the commemoration of the 12th National Day against this scourge. He insisted that although Cambodia recognizes the seriousness of the situation, the country’s efforts in combating the problem also deserve to be highlighted. His statement comes against a backdrop where the United States has listed Cambodia among countries with considerable challenges to overcome in this fight.
Economic development: A leap towards electrification
On the economic side, the Chinese manufacturer BYD is preparing to install an electric vehicle assembly plant in Cambodia by 2025. A promising development, in a country where sales of electric vehicles have already increased spectacularly. Cambodia aims to increase its fleet to 770,000 electric vehicles by 2030 to achieve carbon neutrality. This reflects increased ambition for a greener and more sustainable economy.
Textile exports also saw an impressive jump, reaching $11.2 billion in 2024. A strong increase that demonstrates the resilience of the sector despite persistent structural challenges, such as rising production costs.
Social and environmental initiatives
The fight against illegal immigration also gained momentum this week. The government has launched an extensive border control operation, aimed at expelling illegal foreigners. This plan is part of a broader migration management framework, where fundamental rights must remain a primary concern.
On an ecological level, the project Wonders of the Mekong recently made the significant capture of six giant catfish, thus contributing to the preservation of this endangered species. These successes underline the importance of conservation work carried out for decades by committed communities.
Culture and tourism: Cambodia attracts again
The sector of tourism is also in full swing. Indeed, nearly 6 million tourists visited Cambodia between January and November 2024, a figure which represents an increase of 22% compared to 2023. Angkor Archaeological Park and various festivals in the region reinforce this image of a destination rich in history and culture.
Last but not least, the cruise ship Sea Bourne Encore made a stopover at Sihanoukville, taking on board thousands of tourists, evidence of a return to pre-pandemic tourism levels.
This retrospective of Cambodian news as of December 9 demonstrates a country in flux, seeking to make the most of its rich culture, while tackling key contemporary challenges. The coming weeks promise to be just as fascinating, as these issues evolve and new initiatives emerge on the national scene.
FAQ on Cambodia news (December 9 to 15)
What are the main appointments in the Cambodian monarchy this week? King Norodom Sihamoni promoted Venerable Non Nget to the title of Supreme Grand Patriarch of the Mohanikaya order, succeeding Tep Vong.
What efforts has the United States made to strengthen relations with Cambodia? The United States sent the warship USS Savannah to the Ream naval base, marking an attempt to restore ties with Phnom Penh.
What was the message from the President of the Senate on the occasion of the anniversary of Cambodia’s accession to the UN? Hun Sen congratulated the country on its long-standing membership, emphasizing the key role of the UN in maintaining peace.
What directive has been issued regarding the wearing of uniform by police officers holding political positions? Deputy Prime Minister Sar Sokha has banned police officers in political positions from wearing their uniforms as part of their daily work.
How is the Cambodian government dealing with human trafficking? Prime Minister Hun Manet acknowledged the presence of human trafficking and called for rapid responses to false accusations in this area.
What measures have been taken against fake accounts on Telegram? The Ministry of Information has warned of fraudulent accounts impersonating His Excellency Neth Pheaktra, Minister of Information.
What economic development project has been announced for Cambodia? Chinese manufacturer BYD plans to open an electric vehicle assembly plant in Cambodia in 2025.
What was the impact of textile exports during this period? Textile exports reached USD 11.2 billion, up 23% from the previous year.
How is Cambodia strengthening the fight against illegal immigration? The government has launched a border control operation, aimed at expelling illegal foreigners.
What conservation initiatives are in place for the Mekong giant catfish? The Wonders of the Mekong project successfully captured and released several giant catfish, highlighting successful conservation efforts.
What celebrations took place for the anniversary of Angkor’s World Heritage listing? Hun Sen and Hun Manet welcomed this inscription, with a commemorative event planned at the Elephant Terrace.
What incident was reported regarding an injured elephant in Mondolkiri sanctuary? A five-month-old elephant was found injured but in good health, under the protection of sanctuary rangers.