Prime Minister Hun Manet Wednesday said that the Royal Government has set a goal to transform and develop border areas nationwide, starting with the northeastern border.
During a meeting with the Cambodian Oknha Association (COA) and the Housing Development Association of Cambodia (HDAC) in the Peace Palace, Mr Hun Manet called on domestic companies to explore investment opportunities in the agro-industrial sector as the government plans to introduce new policies and incentive packages in 2025.
Emphasising the need to increase investment flow into the agro-industrial sector along the northeastern border, the Premier said the government aims to unlock the economic potential of the bordering provinces by encouraging local companies to invest in the agricultural product processing sector.
Lauding the efforts of COA and HDAC for their vital contributions to the infrastructure development along the border ring road, Mr Hun Manet said, “This historic infrastructure also serves as a pillar of national defence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity while enhancing the development of the country’s northeastern area, allowing new generations to visit the border.”
Ly Yong Path, President of COA, Ly Hour, Chairman of Ly Hour Insurance Plc and Pung Kheav Se, Chairman of Cambodia Airport Investment Co Ltd (CAIC) and also Chairman of the Overseas Cambodian Investment Corporation (OCIC) were present at the occasion.
In a separate meeting with the Cambodian Artists Association (CAA) and representatives from relevant organisations, federations and sports clubs, Mr Hun Manet appreciated their contributions to promoting the development of the bordering provinces, as well as culture, civilization, and traditions through media, music, and sports events.
He stressed that the development of infrastructure in the northeastern provinces is not only meant to connect roads for trade and business but also to benefit the country’s sovereignty and defence systems.
“RGC has launched the ‘Land Granting & Forest Protection Program for Joint Sustainable Development’ to provide social land to citizens in need of land to build their homes,” he said.
Mr Hun Manet also informed the delegation about upcoming policies and incentive packages aimed at attracting local investments into the agro-industrial sector of the northeastern border provinces.
It may be informed that RGC raised $27 million from 720,000 contributors in 66 days for the development of the 250-kilometre border ring road in the northeast area, which commenced on November 1 and is scheduled for completion by April 30, 2027.
Speaking to Khmer Times, Dr Chey Tech, a socio-economic researcher, said that since the Royal Government withdrew from the Cambodia-Laos-Vietnam Development Triangle Area (CLV-DTA), Prime Minister Hun Manet has held numerous meetings with stakeholders and development partners to advance the development of the bordering provinces.
“The Premier’s focus on the northeast region will significantly improve citizens’ livelihoods through the construction of interconnected infrastructure, enabling easier access for both businessmen and tourists,” he said.
Regarding upcoming policies and incentive packages, Dr Tech said that the initiative will further drive the development of real estate, property, construction, agro-industries, and tourism while strengthening border relations with neighbouring countries.
