(Takeo): Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said that Cambodia’s ability to ensure food security and self-reliance during difficult periods, such as the COVID19 pandemic and border closures with Thailand demonstrates the effectiveness of the country's agricultural policies. These experiences, including past crises and conflicts, have driven domestic production growth and even enabled Cambodia to export to international markets.
The premier spoke on Tuesday (Jul. 1) during the National Fish Day celebration and the release of approximately 1.5 million fish into Tonle Sap Lake, held in Bati district, Takeo province.
“By implementing the right policies, we have demonstrated ownership and self-reliance even in challenging situations. For instance, during the COVID19 pandemic, although some cargo transport continued, it was not as before. Certain products were completely cut off from import […] This is where our self-sufficiency in domestic supply became evident,” the premier underscored.
The premier added that the closure of the border between Cambodia and Thailand, where Thailand prohibited the entry of its goods into Cambodia during a period of bilateral tension, highlighted the soundness of the Cambodian government’s multi-sectoral policies that have enabled Cambodia to maintain autonomy during hard times.
Samdech Thipadei pointed out that ongoing border tensions have reinforced the importance of long-standing government strategies. These include strengthening the sectors of education, health, physical infrastructure, technology, and internet services. He noted that Cambodia’s self-reliance is not solely the result of government policy, but also includes strong contributions from the private sector.
On the occasion, the prime minister also underscored that the Royal Government’s clear development strategies and efforts to continuously strengthen national capabilities have enabled Cambodia to effectively respond to external threats and intimidation attempts from Thailand.
Regarding the current border issues between the two countries, Prime Minister Hun Manet asserted that despite threats involving military force, legal actions, and particularly economic pressures, including Thailand’s unilateral declaration to close border checkpoints, ban fuel and electricity exports, and cut off internet connectivity, none of these actions could severely impact Cambodia. This is due to the government’s consistent investment in building ownership across all sectors.
“This self-reliance means no one can look down on Cambodia. It is the right policy. Our peace, order, and political stability are strong. If we did not have Win-Win policy, we would probably be in difficulty at this hour, running to the East or West for help. But we ended the civil war, transformed former conflict zones into agricultural areas with infrastructure where people now live in peace and prosperity,” Samdech Thipadei continued.
Furthermore, the premier mentioned that he has instructed the preparation of an investment policy to further stimulate agricultural and industrial development in western Cambodia.
Samdech Thipadei added by reaffirming that Cambodia’s resilience is rooted in the Cambodian People’s Party’s "Win-Win" policy, which has contributed significantly to national food security, peace, development, and productivity.
=FRESH NEWS
