Australia Pours US$6.6m into Cambodia’s Water Development Fund

• 16 May 2024
• Local News
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In a significant move to bolster Cambodia’s water infrastructure and management capabilities, Australia has pledged AUD10 million (US$6.6 million) to establish a dedicated water development fund, according to a meeting held on 13 May 2024 between HE Hem Vandy, Cambodia’s Minister of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation, and HE Pablo Kang, Chargé d’Affaires of the Australian Embassy.

Beyond water security, the Australian government has also pledged its support for strengthening Cambodia’s laboratory capacity, with a focus on enhancing the testing of agricultural and food products. This AUD1.8 million initiative aims to bolster consumer confidence in the safety and quality of food products available in the Cambodian market.

During the meeting, Minister Vandy emphasised the importance of expanding access to clean water and highlighted the need for improved licensing procedures and better integration amongst small, private water operators to ensure efficient water supply services.

Cambodia’s National Laboratory reform efforts also received a boost from Australia’s commitment. Minister Vandy underscored the ministry’s focus on strengthening domestic testing capabilities to reduce reliance on overseas facilities. Australia’s support is seen as instrumental in achieving this goal.

This latest pledge builds upon Australia’s long-standing partnership with Cambodia. Over the past three decades, the Australian government has provided more than US$1 billion in official development assistance, supporting critical sectors like education, trade, agriculture, healthcare, infrastructure, gender equality, governance, climate change mitigation, and demining efforts. (Read more)

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