Kandal (FN), Aug. 5 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet is optimistic that the Khmer ancestors of the Nokor Phnom or Funan period would be pleased to see the next generation of Cambodians join forces to build their canals, specifically the Funan Techo Canal Project.

The premier spoke on Monday (Aug. 5) during a groundbreaking ceremony of Funan Techo Canal.

This project is seen as a continuation of the ancestors' vision for the benefit of the socio-economy of the people and the country as a whole, the premier added.

It should be noted that the Kingdom of Phnom, or Funan, is the first kingdom of Cambodia, established since the beginning of the Christian era. During that time, Khmer ancestors built many canals from the sea to Angkor Borei to serve the transportation sector and as trade routes for foreign traders. These canals contributed to building a prosperous kingdom and fostering good relations with both nearby and distant foreigners through trade and diplomacy.

However, as the kingdom weakened and eventually collapsed, the canals lost their significance and were no longer used for large-scale trade because Cambodia shifted its capital and utilised large rivers, including the Mekong River and Tonle Sap, as trade routes instead. In the current era of peace, the Royal Government of Cambodia has excavated and restored the old canal from the Funan period to revive its role in transportation and trade under the new name "Funan Techo Canal."

Samdech Thipadei underscored, "Our ancestors from 2,000 years ago would be happy to see the next generation of Cambodians in the next 20 centuries join together to continue their vision. Building this waterway infrastructure will boost the economy and promote the prestige of Cambodia's national independence and sovereignty.”

Samdech Thipadei added that although there are critics of the canal, they are vastly outnumbered by the supporters, and this does not pose a hindrance. It is the participation and encouragement of the people, embodying the "spirit of national unity," that has motivated the Royal Government to commit to this canal project, which captures the essence and significance of the Funan Techo Canal.

Prime Minister Hun Manet encouraged the people to take photos on the opening day of the canal and look forward to its inauguration in five years. He also invited them to take boat trips along the canal to Takeo, Kampot, Kep, and beyond.

On the other hand, for the people living along the canal, in the next five years, the canal is expected to become an economic asset, enabling people to create businesses, enhance agriculture, and develop industries, thereby transforming their lives.

It should be noted that the Funan Techo Canal project was initiated by Samdech Techo Hun Sen and continues to be implemented by Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet for the benefit of the Cambodian nation. This project is particularly beneficial in the transportation sector, as it aims to reduce transportation costs, travel time, and distance. It also seeks to minimize road damage, traffic congestion, accidents, and streamline procedures for ships and the transit of goods from Cambodia to the sea. Additionally, the project supports the establishment of trade zones, special economic zones, and the development of new ports.

The Funan Techo Canal project also promotes the expansion of agricultural development, irrigation, aquaculture, tourism, flood relief during the rainy season, increased freshwater fish production in the canals, real estate development, and other investments. Overall, this project serves the significant national interests in the socio-economic field.
=FRESH NEWS