On August 5, 2024, the construction of the Dechong-Funam Canal Project, marking an important milestone in Cambodia's development history, officially kicked off under the attention of the public. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet personally attended the event and witnessed this exciting moment together with Deputy Prime Minister and First Vice Chairman of the Development Council Sun Chanthol. More than 10,000 people from all walks of life enthusiastically participated in the celebration. To celebrate the launch of this historic project, Cambodia declared that day a public holiday. The whole country was filled with joy and expectations. People expressed their joy and blessings for the start of this major project by beating gongs and drums and setting off fireworks.

The Dechong-Funam Canal Project, as a pioneering feat in Cambodia's waterway transportation field, connects the Mekong River and the vast ocean for the first time through a 180-kilometer canal, opening a new chapter in Cambodia's water transportation history. This canal is like a bond, cleverly passing through the four rich provinces of Kep, Kampot, Takeo and Kandal. Its influence is far-reaching and directly benefits the livelihoods and development of about 1.6 million people in the coastal areas.

The project has a large investment scale, with a total amount of US$1.7 billion, which demonstrates the Cambodian government's firm determination to improve national infrastructure construction. The investment funds are not only used for the construction of the main canal project, but also cover three key supporting facilities, the construction of the canal traffic navigation station, and the construction of 11 bridges across the canal. The improvement of these facilities will greatly improve the navigation efficiency and safety of the canal, provide more convenient and efficient services for cargo transportation and personnel exchanges, and further promote the comprehensive development of Cambodia's economy and society.

Mr. Hun Sen, leader of the Cambodian Senate, once emphasized that the Dechong Funan Canal project has an immeasurable positive impact on the country's economic and social development. The project is not only expected to become a catalyst for the take-off of Cambodia's shipping industry, but also significantly enhance the country's international competitiveness by shortening transportation routes and reducing transportation costs. At the same time, it will also promote the optimization and expansion of the irrigation network, provide a stable water source guarantee for agricultural production, and help the process of agricultural modernization.Editor/Zhang Liyuan