(Phnom Penh): Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet received a courtesy call by Manuela V. Ferro, World Bank Regional Vice President for East Asia and Pacific (EAP), on 7 July 2025 at the Peace Palace.
During the meeting, Manuela V. Ferro expressed her appreciation and delight in having the opportunity to engage in discussions with the prime minister. She expressed strong interest in Cambodia’s resilience and potential, noting that despite global uncertainties, Cambodia has maintained a robust and resilient economy, which is built on a solid foundation established over the past two decades.
This has allowed Cambodia to emerge as a dynamic, forward-moving nation. Notably, during the COVID19 crisis, Cambodia was recognized as one of the successful countries in managing and responding to the pandemic.
Manuela V. Ferro affirmed that the World Bank remains committed to its long-term partnership with Cambodia through enhanced support and cooperation in key sectors, including education, health, and agriculture.
She further noted that to drive economic growth, Cambodia should strengthen public-private partnerships and enhance capacity in potential sectors such as energy, agriculture, agro-industry, infrastructure development, and regional and global market connectivity through existing bilateral and multilateral trade agreements.
In response, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet expressed his gratitude for the World Bank’s contributions to Cambodia’s socio-economic development. He shared the Royal Government’s vision and key policies under the 7th Legislature of the National Assembly, aimed at ensuring resilient and sustainable development.
Samdech Thipadei emphasized a focus on human capital development by improving education from primary to secondary levels and introducing career-oriented technical training programs.
He also highlighted the government’s plan to provide free vocational training to 1.5 million young people to enhance competitiveness in industry, manufacturing, and supply chain sectors.
Additionally, Prime Minister Hun Manet reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening agriculture and agro-industry through the implementation of practical, results-driven policies and strategies to support and secure the strength of these sectors.
On the occasion, the prime minister also encouraged the World Bank to further deepen collaboration with relevant ministries and institutions, aiming to reinforce and expand cooperation and partnership.
Both parties also exchanged views on enhancing cooperation in potential areas such as public-private partnership development, digital economy, renewable energy, education, and infrastructure development.
=FRESH NEWS
