Phnom penh: H.E. HEM Vanndy, Minister of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation, has met with Mr. Guangzhe Chen, Vice President for Planet at the World Bank Group, to review Cambodia's water sector reform agenda, strengthen sector governance, and accelerate the implementation of ongoing projects aimed at achieving universal access to clean water by 2030. According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the meeting, held on Wednesday at the Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation (MISTI), focused on Cambodia's Water Security Compact, the establishment of an independent water supply regulator, progress on World Bank-financed projects, and expanding water infrastructure to support Cambodia's rapidly growing industrial sector. Minister HEM Vanndy emphasized the importance of improving water services not only for public health and living conditions but also as a critical component of Cambodia's economic transformation, especially in rural areas. The minister expressed determination to transform the w ater sector through measures such as establishing an independent water supply regulator, enhancing the performance of public and private water operators, reducing non-revenue water, and expanding infrastructure to meet increasing household and industrial demand while keeping services affordable. Mr. Chen reaffirmed the World Bank's ongoing support for Cambodia's water sector and praised the country's leadership under the Water Forward initiative. He highlighted Cambodia's Water Compact as a model example that could be shared with other nations and expressed alignment with Cambodia's priorities, promising continued support for the country's water sector reforms. The discussions concluded with both parties agreeing to maintain close collaboration to expedite project implementation, strengthen water sector institutions, mobilize investment, and advance Cambodia's Water Security Compact under the Water Forward initiative.