Cambodia’s Hun Manet Rejects Claims of Financial Troubles for Funan Techo Canal Project
Prime Minister insists project is progressing despite media reports of funding issues
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has denied media reports suggesting that the Funan Techo canal project is facing financial difficulties due to a lack of funding from China. A Reuters report last week claimed that China had expressed doubts about the project and had not committed to its financial support, amid a broader reduction in China’s overseas investments. However, Hun Manet addressed the issue in a speech on Saturday, stating that there is no obstacle to the project’s progress and reaffirming that Cambodia is moving forward with clear plans and alternative development partners.
The Funan Techo canal, a significant infrastructure project initiated under former Prime Minister Hun Sen, aims to create a 180-kilometer waterway linking Phnom Penh with the Gulf of Thailand. The project has been touted as a major legacy of the Hun family’s leadership. While initially expected to be funded primarily by China under the Belt and Road Initiative, the project is now largely funded through domestic sources, with Cambodia expected to cover 51% of the US$1.7 billion investment. Despite concerns over the project’s viability, Hun Manet emphasized the government’s commitment to careful implementation and addressing any impacts on local communities.
Despite the prime minister’s assurances, there has been little visible progress on the ground since the groundbreaking ceremony in August. Reports indicate that there is a lack of machinery and workers at the construction site, and local residents have expressed concerns about their relocation and compensation. In response, the Ministry of Public Works and Transport released a statement defending the project, accusing media outlets of spreading false information. Political analysts have called for the government to expedite construction to maintain credibility and ensure the project’s success.
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The Funan Techo canal, a significant infrastructure project initiated under former Prime Minister Hun Sen, aims to create a 180-kilometer waterway linking Phnom Penh with the Gulf of Thailand. The project has been touted as a major legacy of the Hun family’s leadership. While initially expected to be funded primarily by China under the Belt and Road Initiative, the project is now largely funded through domestic sources, with Cambodia expected to cover 51% of the US$1.7 billion investment. Despite concerns over the project’s viability, Hun Manet emphasized the government’s commitment to careful implementation and addressing any impacts on local communities.
Despite the prime minister’s assurances, there has been little visible progress on the ground since the groundbreaking ceremony in August. Reports indicate that there is a lack of machinery and workers at the construction site, and local residents have expressed concerns about their relocation and compensation. In response, the Ministry of Public Works and Transport released a statement defending the project, accusing media outlets of spreading false information. Political analysts have called for the government to expedite construction to maintain credibility and ensure the project’s success.
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