Cambodia has officially opened a major new highway funded by China.
The 114.9-kilometer road connects the eastern provinces of Tbong Khmum and Kampong Cham.
Cambodia’s Prime Minister Hun Manet led the opening ceremony on April 12.
China’s Ambassador to Cambodia, Wang Wenbin, was also present.
The highway aims to boost local economic growth and tourism.
Hun Manet said it will ease travel and transportation.
The project is part of China’s efforts to support Cambodia’s development.
Wang Wenbin noted that China has helped build over 4,000 kilometers of highways and more than 10 major bridges in Cambodia.
Project Details
The highway was built under a concessional loan from China.
The Shanghai Construction Group carried out the construction.
The Export-Import Bank of China provided a special loan of around $130 million.
Work began on April 2, 2021.
China is Cambodia’s top economic partner.
It has provided significant financing for infrastructure projects, including roads and bridges.
The project aligns with China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and Cambodia’s Quadrilateral Strategy.
Economic Impact
The new highway is expected to stimulate local economic activity.
It will improve connectivity between eastern provinces.
This should help boost tourism and trade in the region.
By enhancing transportation links, the highway will support Cambodia’s economic growth.
China’s involvement in Cambodia’s infrastructure development is substantial.
The country has received large-scale financing and assistance for various projects.
The collaboration between China and Cambodia on infrastructure projects like the new highway is seen as a key aspect of their economic partnership.
