In a significant boost to regional cooperation, Cambodia and China have agreed on a new round of joint projects under the Mekong-Lancang Cooperation Special Fund 2024. The agreement was signed by Deputy Prime Minister Sok Chenda Sophea, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and Wang Wenbin, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People's Republic of China, on September 5, 2024.
The special fund, which has been financing projects in Cambodia since 2017, will allocate approximately USD 2 million for eight initiatives covering various sectors such as tourism, agriculture, rural development, and education. These projects are designed to promote economic growth, sustainable development, and regional cooperation among the Mekong-Lancang countries.
The MLC Special Fund has so far financed around 90 projects in Cambodia, showcasing the strong commitment of both Cambodia and China to building a community with a shared future of peace, prosperity, and sustainable development. This latest agreement is seen as a significant step towards strengthening bilateral relations between the two nations, which have been cooperating closely on various fronts.
The Mekong-Lancang Cooperation is an economic and cultural partnership aimed at promoting regional integration and cooperation among the countries bordering the Mekong River and the Lancang River in China's Yunnan Province. The cooperation has seen significant growth in recent years, with Cambodia playing a key role in facilitating dialogue and collaboration between the region's member states.
The new agreement is expected to further cement Cambodia's position as a key player in regional affairs, promoting economic growth and sustainable development in the Mekong-Lancang region. With China's growing influence in the region, this partnership is likely to play a significant role in shaping the future of regional cooperation and diplomacy.
In conclusion, the latest agreement on the MLC Special Fund 2024 marks an important milestone in Cambodia-China relations, demonstrating the strong commitment to building a community with a shared future. As the Mekong-Lancang Cooperation continues to grow, Cambodia's leadership in facilitating dialogue and collaboration between member states is likely to remain crucial in promoting regional integration and sustainable development.
Sources:
Cambodia Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation