Kampot (FN), Jun. 6 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet announced that the construction of the Funan Techo canal project will commence on 5 August 2024, coinciding with the birthday of Samdech Techo Hun Sen, Cambodian President of the Senate.

The premier spoke on Thursday (Jun. 6) during an inauguration for the official use of Kampot multi-purpose port in Kampot province.

Samdech Thipadei underscored, "I would also like to clarify that the construction of this project is set to begin on 5 August 2024, and does not have to wait until the one-year anniversary of the new government. We have already prepared the venue and arranged the necessary equipment and resources. So, anyone doubting our capability should not waste their efforts; it will be in vain.”

On this occasion, Samdech Thipadei thanked Cambodian people worldwide, particularly the residents of Kampot province for their support of the Funan Techo canal project. He confirmed that the people of Kampot are the direct beneficiaries of this project.

Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet reaffirmed that the Funan Techo canal project is no longer 100 per cent financed by foreign companies but is now primarily owned by Cambodian companies, with a stake of 51 per cent or more.

Prime Minister Hun Manet added that the Funan Techo canal project aims to benefit the nation and the Cambodian people from now into the future, rather than serving foreign interests.

Please be informed that the Funan Techo canal is 180 km long from Prek Takeo of the Mekong River, through the Prek Ta Ek of the Bassac River, then into Prek Ta Hing of the Bassac River, Koh Thom district, and extends to the Kep province passes through four provinces, including Kandal, Takeo, Kampot and Kep. The construction of the new waterway project is estimated to cost USD 1.7 billion and take about four years to complete.

This canal project will provide many benefits, including reducing the time, distance and cost of current transport, the establishment of commercial areas and logistics centres, and the development of new satellite ports, more expansion of agriculture, irrigation, aquaculture and livestock development areas, supporting the development of Cambodia's fourth economic pole, creating more jobs at Sihanoukville Autonomous Port, Phnom Penh Autonomous Port and other Ports, promoting urban development and urbanisation, and the promotion of real estate growth.
=FRESH NEWS