US Commits US$4m Over Two Decades to Phnom Bakheng Temple Restoration

• Sommana Yan
• 4 December 2023
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Embarking on a steadfast commitment to cultural preservation, the United States Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) has, since 2004, extended unwavering support to the World Temple Fund (WMF) for the restoration of Cambodia’s iconic Phnom Bakheng temple. Since 2004, eight grants amounting to a commendable US$4 million have been allocated for conservation endeavors, with the latest grant of US$450,000 being ceremoniously signed, according to a US Embassy press release on 1 December 2023.

US Ambassador to Cambodia, W. Patrick Murphy, expressed enthusiasm, stating, “This grant is the largest AFCP grant for the Asia-Pacific region this year. The United States is very proud of its longstanding cultural cooperation with the Kingdom of Cambodia. The grant aims at fortifying the preservation efforts of Phnom Bakheng, a cultural gem watch the sunset nestled in the heart of Angkor Park in Siem Reap. ”

Over two decades, this funding has played a pivotal role in various restoration initiatives, encompassing the temple’s foundations, stone preservation, waterproofing network, and the meticulous reconstruction of walls and grounds. Notably, it has also contributed to local job creation, fostering a symbiotic relationship between heritage preservation and community development.

Beyond Phnom Bakheng, the US Department of State, through the Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation, has injected US$6 million since 2001 into safeguarding other significant cultural heritage sites in Cambodia, including the UNESCO-listed Preah Vihear temple.

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