France’s Commitment to Boost Cambodia’s Rural Development Receives Praise
France has vowed to further support Cambodia in its rural development efforts, marking a significant step in bilateral cooperation between the two nations. The commitment was reinforced during a meeting held in Phnom Penh on September 18th, between H.E. Chhay Rithisen, the Minister of Rural Development, H.E. Jacques Pellet, the French Ambassador to Cambodia, and Mrs. Sandrine Boucher, the Country Director for Cambodia at the French Development Agency (AFD).
Highlighting the already fruitful partnership between France and Cambodia, Ambassador Pellet commended France’s previous contribution to the country’s physical infrastructure and education. Notably, France has supported Cambodia by providing scholarships to Cambodian students.
Expressing gratitude for France’s ongoing cooperation and assistance through AFD, Minister Rithisen emphasized the new government’s Pentagonal Strategy. The minister outlined the key focus areas that include the development of physical infrastructure and communications, improving the living standards of rural communities, diversifying rural economic activities, and strengthening administrative support services and general affairs.
The commitment from France to boost rural development in Cambodia comes as a crucial endorsement of the country’s priorities and goals, signifying international recognition of Cambodia’s determination to uplift its rural areas. This support is expected to have a positive impact on the overall socio-economic development of the country.
The partnership between France and Cambodia is based on mutual respect and the shared goal of enhancing the socio-economic well-being of the Cambodian population, particularly those in rural communities. With France’s expertise and experience in various sectors, such as infrastructure development and education, Cambodia can benefit from valuable knowledge transfer and technical assistance.
By focusing on rural development, Cambodia aims to address the existing socio-economic disparities between urban and rural areas. The government’s Pentagonal Strategy aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, especially in terms of reducing rural poverty, improving access to quality education and healthcare, and fostering inclusive economic growth.
France’s commitment to further support Cambodia’s rural development demonstrates the strength and depth of the bilateral relationship between the two countries. This pledge opens up avenues for enhanced collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and technical assistance, paving the way for Cambodia to achieve its sustainable development targets.
The partnership between France and Cambodia is expected to yield tangible results in the coming years, contributing to the overall growth and prosperity of Cambodia’s rural communities. France’s continued support in priority areas like physical infrastructure development and education will undoubtedly play a crucial role in promoting sustainable socio-economic development across the country.
As Cambodia moves forward in its journey towards inclusive growth and development, it can rely on France as a reliable partner, offering valuable expertise and resources. This cooperation sets a positive precedent for other nations to follow, as they recognize and support the importance of rural development in advancing overall national progress.
