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Welcome to our recap of Cambodia highlights for the week of December 15-22. This period was rich in events, ranging from the royal visit to China to the important diplomatic meetings and international financing agreements. This week’s news highlights Cambodia’s efforts to strengthen its relations with the France and theEuropean Union, while addressing essential social and economic issues. Let’s dive into the key moments that shaped Cambodian news this week.
This week, Cambodia saw significant events, from a royal visit to China to strengthened international partnerships. Several agreements have been signed for the development of the country, while local initiatives are taking action against illegal immigration and for social well-being. Let’s take an overview of the significant events that marked Cambodian news during this period.
Monarchy in Action
The King of Cambodia, Norodom Sihamoni, made a three-day official visit to China, from December 19 to 21, 2024. This trip to the province of Hainan was an opportunity to strengthen ties between the two nations and promote various cultural and economic exchanges.
Development Agreements with France and the EU
A key moment of the week was the signing of three financing agreements worth 183 million euros between France, the European Union and Cambodia, in collaboration with theFrench Development Agency (AFD). These agreements, signed by several ministers, aim to support projects in the water sector, in particular the rehabilitation of the Svay Chek river has Banteay Meanchey and the third phase of the project Bakheng for the Phnom Penh Water Supply Authority.
At the same time, the Cambodian Prime Minister, Hun Manet, welcomed Olivier Poivre d’Arvor, the French President’s special envoy for the Oceans, thus strengthening bilateral relations and addressing major environmental issues, such as plastic and climate change.
Politics and Diplomacy: Fight against Clandestine Immigration
Cambodia has intensified its fight against illegal immigration, faced with an increase in the illegal stay of foreigners, particularly near the Thai borders. Document and residence control operations have been carried out, and sanctions have been considered for owners who do not declare their foreign tenants. This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to national security while seeking to attract investments.
Prime Minister Hun Manet also received Admiral Samuel J. Paparo, commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command, where they discussed joint efforts to strengthen cooperation in defense.
Economic Analysis: Growth Prospects
On the economic level, the World Bank has adjusted its growth forecast for Cambodia to 5.3% in 2024, in line with a rebound in foreign trade and investment. However, growth is being held back by global challenges, such as the slowdown in China, a real estate market in difficulty and a rate of bad debts around 7%.
Foreign investments continue to flow in, including South Korea, which represents the second largest source of foreign direct investment (FDI) in Cambodia. A forum on trade and investment was held in Phnom Penh, highlighting opportunities in various sectors.
Social Issues: Highlights of the Week
On the social side, the situation of measles has taken a worrying turn with at least 375 cases reported this year. The Ministry of Health has mobilized parents to vaccinate their children against this contagious disease.
Furthermore, the 11th Cambodian Book Fair took place on Koh Pich, attracting literature lovers with nearly 300 stands. The event also aimed to promote education and access to culture, with distributions of free books, notably that of the First Lady.
Culture and Tourism: A Country that Attracts
Cambodia continues to attract tourists, both for its historic temples and for its dream beaches. At the same time, the Minister of Culture expressed the importance of movie theater as a vector of cultural exchange during the 6th Lancang-Mekong International Film Week, which highlights works from several countries in the region.
However, the Miss Planet Cambodia organization announced that it would no longer hold the franchise for the beauty pageant, sparking varied reactions among its supporters.
Find all the latest information and much more about Cambodia by visiting the following sites: Gavroche, Southeast Asia And West France.
FAQ on Cambodian News from December 15 to 22
Q: What was the notable event regarding the King of Cambodia this week? A: The king Norodom Sihamoni made a three-day official visit to China, traveling in particular to the province of Hainan.
Q: What agreements have been signed between France, the EU and Cambodia? A: Three financing agreements worth 183 million euros were signed to support projects in the water sector.
Q: What type of projects are these? A: The projects concern the third phase of the project Bakheng for the Phnom Penh Water Supply Authority and the rehabilitation of the river Svay Chek.
Q: Who met Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet on December 20? A: Olivier Poivre d’Arvor, special envoy of the French President for the Oceans, was received at the Peace Palace in Phnom Penh.
Q: What were the main discussions between Hun Manet and Olivier Poivre d’Arvor? A: They discussed progress in bilateral relations and issues related to climate change.
Q: What measure has been put in place to combat illegal immigration in Cambodia? A: The authorities have launched an operation to control identity documents and places of residence to reduce the number of illegal foreigners.
Q: Who was received by Hun Manet this week to discuss military affairs? A: Samuel J. Paparo, Commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command, met with the Cambodian Prime Minister.
Q: What is the economic situation of Cambodia according to the World Bank in December 2024? A: The World Bank has revised its economic growth forecast for Cambodia to 5.3%.
Q: What are the prospects for the Cambodian tourism and economic sector? A: The tourism sector is in good development and bilateral trade with the Korea has progressed.
Q: What were the road safety initiatives this week? A: The Minister of the Interior announced a reduction in 12% road accidents, emphasizing the importance of continuing prevention efforts.
Q: What happened at the 11th Cambodian Book Fair? A: The show offered visitors access to nearly 300 book stands and free copies of the book by the First Lady of Cambodia.
Q: Which disease has resurfaced in Cambodia in 2024? A: Cambodia has recorded at least 375 cases of measles, prompting authorities to recommend vaccination.
Q: What is the status of the investigation into football goalkeeper Vireak Dara? A: The Cambodia Football Federation has opened an investigation into suspicions of match fixing following the defeat against Singapore.