Phnom penh: The Royal Government of Cambodia and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Cambodia Office have signed two significant Financing Agreements totaling approximately US$171.3 million. The agreements were formalized at a ceremony held at the Ministry of Economy and Finance, attended by Deputy Prime Minister H.E. Dr. Aun Pornmoniroth and JICA Cambodia's Chief Representative Mr. SANUI Kazumasa.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the first agreement is a Grant Agreement valued at approximately US$7.5 million dedicated to the Project for the Establishment of the Teacher Education College in Kampong Cham Province. This initiative aims to enhance the capacity of teacher education by providing essential facilities and equipment, transforming existing institutions into a Teacher Education College (TEC). The project includes the construction of a STEM building and an assembly hall, both equipped with necessary educational resources.
The second agreement, a Loan Agreement worth approximately US$163.8 million, is for the Southwest Phnom Penh Irrigation and Drainage Rehabilitation and Improvement Project (III). The project seeks to boost agricultural productivity and mitigate flood damage in rural areas by upgrading irrigation and drainage facilities in the provinces of Kampong Speu, Takeo, and Kandal. This initiative is expected to elevate living standards through the Roleang Chrey and Kandal Stung-Bati sub-projects.
The signing of these agreements underscores the robust and enduring partnership between Cambodia and Japan, highlighted by Japan's Official Development Assistance (ODA) through grant aid and concessional loans. The bilateral relationship between the two nations has been further reinforced by the recent elevation of their ties to a "Comprehensive Strategic Partnership" in 2023, fostering expanded cooperation and new project developments in line with Cambodia's policies and strategies.
As a principal development partner, Japan, through JICA, remains committed to its strategic partnership with Cambodia, supporting the country's socio-economic development through various ODA schemes, including grant aid, concessional loans, and technical cooperation.