Address at the Official Inauguration Ceremony of Prek Kdam Bridge Crossing Tonle Sap

Address at the Official Inauguration Ceremony of Prek Kdam Bridge Crossing Tonle Sap and Ground Breaking Ceremony for Construction of National Road No.61 Funded by Saved Budget or Credit Balance of Loan from China and Counterpart Fund of the Royal Government of Cambodia

May 31^st, 2010

- Your Venerable Monks,

- H.E PAN GUANG XUE, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to the Kingdom of Cambodia

- Excellencies Ambassadors, National and International Distinguished Guests,

- Beloved Compatriots, Teachers and Students!

Today, I have great honor and pleasure to take part in the official inauguration ceremony of the “Prek Kdam Cambodia-China Friendship Bridge and the Opening of Construction of National Road No.61”. For this auspicious occasion, I would like to share great pleasure with Grandpa, Grandma and people living in this area, who have received this great achievement to serve your interest and directly support your livelihood.

Moreover, I would like to warmly welcome H.E. Pan Guang Xue, Ambassador of the People’ s Republic of China for his first time of his diplomacy mandate to participate in the inauguration ceremony of Prek Kdam Bridge and opening site for construction of National Road No.61. This road is built from west head of Preak Kdam to National Road 6A at sixteen kilometers junction. It is 10 meters width and costs 9.76 million US dollars. This project is funded by loan for China and 5% counterpart fund of the Royal Government. This active gesture is contributed to meeting day-to-day growing demand and request of the people. It is clearly seen that the Royal Government has mobilized fund from all stakeholders in order to contribute to building various achievements for the sake of socio-economic development according to the spirit of “Rectangular Strategy” for growth, employment, equity and efficiency.

Taking this opportunity, I would like to thank Her Excellency Zhang Jinfeng former Chinese Ambassador and her colleagues for their support in the restoration and development of infrastructure such as Prek Kdam Bridge for our use. This bridge was actually crossed by the people before and during the Khmer New Year. H.E. Yim ChhayLy, Deputy Prime Minister and H.E. Tram Iv Tek, Minister of Public Works and Transport hold Buddhism opening ceremony on 10-12 April 2010 for people with happiness and safety during the Khmer New Year.

For this occasion, I would like to convey, through H.E. Pan Guang Xue, gratitude of the people and Government of Cambodia to Chinese people and Government of People’ s Republic of China that always lend us money without setting complicated conditions for road, bridge and infrastructure construction, in which the roads constructed by the loan from the PRC is around 1509.67 Km length, including National Road No.7, No.8, No.57, No.62, No.76, No.78 and three long bridges including Sekong, Prek Tamak and Prek Kdam. It all costs 900 millions US dollar. It is so pround that loan from China is available when we need. In the name of long-term and close friendship and key financier, it helps the Royal Government in all sectors such as road and bridge construction in order to integrate domestic economy and promote economic development and tourism for poverty reduction. This effort has contributed a lot to economic growth, job creation and elevating living standard of people that lead to a rapid poverty reduction. This great sympathy is valueless, unforgettable and recorded in history and deeply carved in heart of the people and Government of the Kingdom of Cambodia.

These growing achievements witnessed the efforts made by the Royal Government in building physical infrastructures, regarded by Cambodia as “Locomotive of Economic Growth“ and it is a vein connecting the Kingdom of Cambodia to become an element of economic activities for national, regional and international integration. With these purposes, the Royal Government of Cambodia has continued to build and develop transportation infrastructure such as road, railway, waterway, ships, international seaport and airway, including open sky policy for national, regional and international integration to facilitate and promote all sectors for national development, especially trade, investment, agriculture, tourism and transportation of goods across the borders.

Of course, in the past decades, to cross the national road No.5 at where we have built this bridge to other side of the river, our people had to travel by small engine boats and ferries. They had to wait and pay for crossing fees. On the other hand, if we had to transport goods from Thailand or other places from north-western region of Cambodia to Siem Reap, Kampong Cham or other north-eastern provinces of Cambodia, we did not have ferries or bridges, we had to go to Phnom Penh first and then crossed the river at Chruoy Changvar bridge to national road No.6 or No.7 or No.76, which was normally time-consuming and caused heavy traffic jams in Phnom Penh, rapid destruction of Chruoy Changvar bridge and national road No.6 due to heavy weights. Moreover, if we do not have road infrastructure in this Prek Kdam area, the Mekong area which is a fertilized area with vast population, only 30 Kms away from Phnom Penh- becomes isolated like other remote areas and faces many difficulties. So, the Royal Government has to build this Prek Kdam and reconstruction of national road No.61, connecting the west of the bridge to national road No.7 and No.6 at the intersection of national road No.6A, in which we are now inaugurating for road reconstruction. In fact, national road No.61 and Prek Kdam bridge will act as an effective mean in connecting transportation, interconnecting with national road No.8 by crossing Tameak bridge which will be completed in the near future and also connecting to Bavet International Border checkpoint via national road No.1, which is the potential economic corridor because this Prek Kdam bridge is the intersection of national road No.5 from Cambodian-Thailand border, national road No.6 from Angkor region which is the tourism site and from the national road No.7, connecting from Cambodian-Laos border and north-eastern region of Cambodia. At the same time, bridge and national road will contribute to raising people’s standard of living and facilitate the transportation of goods, services and business operations of our people. They can go faster with high economic effectiveness and bring other benefits to the entire nation. Specifically, bridge and national road will become the historic infrastructure for our people because bridge and road is a strategic point for integration that connects western and eastern regions. This connectivity is my strong wishes in which I usually mentioned “develop in the west, but never forget the east”. With the achievement of this bridge and road will lead to the balance of development between these two regions. This point is the core benefit from this bridge and road. At the same time, this bridge and road will play a key role in investment within this region as well as playing role as catalyst for sharing the progression and economic growth with equity within the society.

In summary, this work cannot happen by chance; it happens by commitment, preparation and firm decision from the Royal Government for the national integration, economic effectiveness, and equity of sharing growth and to reduce the traffic jams. In fact, in this region, land are fertilized, which could be used to plant and cultivate with high yield, as well as strengthening and increasing investment, trade greatly, which will lead to build strong foundation for the national economy and micro economy growth days after days, especially connecting national road No.5 and No.6 and facilitate the smoothness of traffic. At the present, with these achievements coming from our commitments, we can see the real benefits and it will grow double in the near future.

In this spirit, on behalf of the Royal Government of Cambodia, I will continue to uphold my firm stand, commitment and strong support to all reconstruction and development of all sectors, especially I still consider the reconstruction, development, maintenance and repairing of transportation infrastructure as a prioritized policy which could help the Government to achieve its desirable goals to rapidly reduce poverty for our people. At the same time, I would like to recommend to all ministries, institutions, and all level of local authorities, especially the management and officials of the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, to continue to strongly cooperate, maintain and repair all transportation networks to all regions across the country as well as neighboring countries with high quality. Together, the participation and understanding of our people is a key factor for construction and maintenance of all roads and bridges.

In this regard, I would like to appeal to all people who have been living in the area of national road No.61 and all levels of local authorities to provide good cooperation in order to facilitate smooth, timely and highly safe construction work as expected.

At the same time, on behalf of the Royal Government and People of Cambodia, I would like to thank the Governments and peoples of friend countries, development partners and all financing agencies who have always pad attention to donate and spiritually and materially support in all kinds to restore and develop Cambodia in all sectors. Once again, I would like to convey my deepest thank to the people and Government of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) who has unconditionally provided loan on time at the request of Cambodia who is now facing difficulties and it is necessary for us to promote economic growth and social development. Along with that, I would like to appreciate and encourage the close cooperation between the management and officials of the Ministry of Public Works and Transport and SHANGHAI Construction (GROUP) General Company of the PRC who have tried to save at the maximum in order to keep a partial budget for building national road No.61 and I would like to appreciate and encourage the close cooperation between the management and civil servants, workers, employees of the Ministry of Public Works and Transport and the local authorities as well as with related institutions who have made their utmost physical and mental effort to cooperate and implement to achieve the success of strategic plan set out by the Royal Government so far, especially on the construction of roads, bridges, railways, skyways, waterway and ports all over the country. I would like to highly appreciate and encourage the SHANGHAI Construction (GROUP) General Company and Guangzhou Wanan Construction Supervision as a technical advisor, who have made greatest efforts in building Prekdam before the set plan and according to my suggestion during the linkage of bridge tie on 14 September 2009 and I strongly hope that both companies will continue their work with further success in building the national road No.61 to conform to the international standard and will be completely done as expected or before.

In this connection, I would like to remind all people to take care of their traveling and advise their siblings, nieces and nephews not to be extremely happy while traveling over the bridge that has already been constructed and don’t drive over speed in order to prevent from any unexpected accidents causing human lives and property damage. Along with that, competent authorities must strictly implement like drizzling rain in combating against the transportation of over 25 tons. In this case, the Royal Government will continue to strengthen and adopt the law on road as well as other laws and legal documents for effectively managing the transport infrastructure. The Royal Government will also pay further attention to the traffic safety and will put out firm measures for any crimes transporting over the limited weight.

I will not forget about the gratitude made by officials, staff and workers of the Prekdam Ferry who have so far transported the people and have fulfilled the strategic and economic requirement of the Royal Government, especially when Chruoy Changvar bridge and national road No.6A was cut off during the war and have released the burden on Chruoy Changvar bridge as well as the congestion in Phnom Penh. In this sense, I would like to take this opportunity to encourage the Ministry of Public Works and Transport to timely build new ferry port at Chruoy Changvar -Svay Chrum in order to take staffs, workers and means of the Prekdam Ferry Port to be processed there after the contract of private ferry port comes to an end at the end of this year 2010.

At this end, along with the crowded gathering with joy during the official inauguration of “Achievement of Cambodia-China Friendship Bridge in Prekdam and the Opening of Construction of National Road No.61” today, I would like to wish the venerable monks, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, National and International Guests, Compatriots, Teachers and Students the four gems of Buddhist blessing: Longevity, Nobility, Health and Strength.

Keynote Address at the International Conference on Extractive Industries Under the Theme of “Cambodia’s Opportunity”

Phnom Penh, May 26, 2010

Excellencies Ambassadors and Representatives,

Mr. Douglas Broderick, United Nations Resident Coordinator and UNDP Representative in Cambodia,

Excellencies, Oknhas, ladies and gentlemen distinguished national and international guests!

It is my pleasure to be here in the International Conference on Extractive Industries under the theme of “Cambodia’s Opportunity”, being jointly held for the first time in Cambodia by the Ministry of Industry Mine and Energy and UNDP Cambodia.

On behalf of the Royal Government of Cambodia and on my behalf, I highly value the initiative to organize this event as Cambodian mine officials and other stakeholders will be able to exchange experiences, lessons and best practices on the management and development of mining industry to bolster mining activities in the country, especially the oil and gas sector. The presence of Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen national and international experts, representatives of national and international organizations, institutes, development partners, NGOs, oil companies and all the stakeholders attest to our common concern on the management and development of natural resource in Cambodia as well as on the necessary support needed to make the sector an important source of revenue for national development and poverty reduction.

This event also shows the Royal Government’s commitment to the development and management of its resources, as sated in its political agenda during the 4^th Legislature of the National Assembly that “the Royal Government promotes investment in the oil and gas sector by conducting the feasibility study and assessing its potential toward commercializing this sector by linking it with the environmental, natural and social preservation initiatives so that revenues will be efficiently utilized in a transparent and accountable manner to improve socio-economy and for poverty reduction.”

The aim and determination of the Royal Government are indeed to strive for better living standard of its people and a bright future of the nation. Moreover, the Royal Government is determined to stick to its reform programs to serve the country and people. In this context, existing reform programs will be broadened, deepened and firmly implemented to ensure efficiency and effectiveness in the pursuit of growth, poverty reduction, equitable distribution of growth, environment sustainability, especially through sustainable management and utilization of its resources.

To serve the social development purpose, countries all over the world are extracting their natural resources and process them into various goods to meet the demand of the people and for constructing various infrastructures in the society. In that sense, natural resources play a key role in promoting people’s living standard and for socio-economic development. In particular, some oil-rich Arabian countries have maximized the gain from the oil and gas sector, as a result their countries grew very fast and the people’s standard of living was improved. Until now, Cambodia has not yet benefiting from the sector and has been developing the country with empty hands. If we are fortunate enough to gain from the sector, we will use the revenue in a very responsible way to preserve the nation’s benefits and speed up poverty reduction, especially to ensure that the country receive blessing from such resources.

In this spirit, the government will continue to effectively strengthen all kinds of revenue collection measures, for that purpose the Ministry of Economy and Finance will have to rigorously examine all kinds of agreements and concession contracts and must continue to strictly implement existing fiscal tax law and law on public financial system to achieve efficiency, transparency and accountability of revenue, particularly those revenues proceeding from mining and oil business. In parallel, Cambodia will have to make use of its other potentials such as agriculture, tourism, garment and construction sectors without entirely depending on the mineral resource. This is a firm stance of Cambodia in its national socio-economic development journey.

Apparently, Cambodia possesses natural resources, but Cambodia has been late to develop this mining sector due to insecurity at mountainous and jungle areas where mine are stock, lack of human resource and weak institutional capacity. Indeed, the investment in feasibility study on mineral exploration only took place in 1998 when the country had received full peace. Therefore, the investment from the private sector in the study is very important while Cambodia is lack of capital and human resource to conduct the research and to develop the sector by itself. However, we must bear in mind that development of this mining sector is by no means the only option in the course of Cambodia’s development. That is because, besides mine, oil and gas resources which represent the new opportunity for Cambodia, there are many other potential sectors such as agriculture, agro-industry, labor-intensive industry, supporting industries and export products, energy, construction, infrastructure, service and finance and banking, tourism and telecommunication sectors…etc… all of which have been actively contributing to Cambodia socio-economic development.

However, if the development of mining sector is in a positive situation in the socio-economic development process we will not give up this option. Hence, the government will continue tightening its measures which is consistent with existing regulation and mechanism for the management of this sector in order to ensure sustainable development and ensure a favorable environment for conserving cultural patrimony and heritage, history and the growth of biodiversities.

Indeed, both the concession awardees who invested in the feasibility and assessment study in Cambodia’s mining sector and the Royal Government of Cambodia are eager to know what types of mineral resources Cambodia has, in what amount, if it is economically viable, to what extent it could cast adverse impact on the society, the environment and deforestation, or if it is better to preserve those mine deposit area as wealth for next several dozen generations in the future. Undeniably, extracting the natural resources without conservative philosophy will manipulate the history, lose cultural heritage and cause environmental instability, which can transform a green area into a deserted, polluted and destabilized area because the natural resources are under great destructive pressure.

Through this, development must take great consideration of natural resource conservation, especially natural resource in dry land, Tonle Sap and areas surrounding Tonle Sap…etc… Obviously, natural resource preservation is clearly inscribed in the constitution of the Royal Kingdom of Cambodia which requires the state to ensure a rational utilization of the resources along with environmental protection, in order to achieve the principle of sustainable development whereas laws and legal standards have been prepared in conformity to the essence of the constitution including law on investment of the Royal Kingdom of Cambodia, law on management and mining business, law on environment and natural resource management, law on taxation, land law, sub-decree on environmental pollution inspection, sub-decree on social and environmental impact assessment. And at the moment, we are preparing a tax regime and excise on mining business in addition to law on taxation and law on management and mining business.

According to agenda of the conference, the Ministry of Industry, Mine and Energy will present the conference with the context and current situation of mining sector in Cambodia in order to provide a clear understanding of law, legal standard and the current situation of the management and development in Cambodia’s mining sector. In overall, I would like to highly value the topics which are carefully selected by the Ministry of Industry, Mine and Energy and the United Nations Development Program, to be presented by national and international experts in this conference.

Through this, I certainly hope and believe that this conference will provide all participants the chance to share experience and knowledge relating to the management, technique, law and legal standards that other countries are implementing for the sector, global mining market trend, tax regime that is applied in this mining sector, the participation of community and minority in the sector, the employment generation at locality, the conservation and development, the eradication of anarchic mining business and environmental protection. In order to achieve above mentioned goals, I would like to take this opportunity to provide some recommendations as follows:

1. The MIME must continue its cooperation with related ministries/institutions to implement monitoring mechanism and strictly monitor the research and mining business activities. We must take urgent measures to withhold and stop the abnormal exploration and mining business activities that could harm the environment and national socio-economy. Along with that, the Ministry of Industry, Mines and Energy and the Council for the Development of Cambodia must continue to pay high attention to the analysis and evaluation of the impact assessment in order to ensure sustainable development and to be able to prevent every risks that may occur incidentally in doing this mining business.

2. The Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport must cooperate with the Ministry of Industry, Mines and Energy in searching for the possibility of producing more experts on physiology and geology through short course training and providing scholarship to study abroad, and reopen the University of Geology-Mine.

3. The Ministry of Industry, Mines and Energy must continue its cooperation with related ministries/institutions, local authorities, all kinds of armed forces in order to ensure that every activities of mining business would not destroy, disturb, and violate sacred places or other noble places, cultural and historical sites that have been there for a very long time ago. Those resources are truly valuable for development, yet it is not the only choice that we have, such violation will make us the prisoner of history, betraying the people’s will, who have voted for us to support and protect their interest. Therefore, these reasons are enough for us to take a long-term view.

4. The Ministry of Industry, Mines and Energy, related ministries, local authorities, and armed forces must use all means to eliminate every activity of anarchic mining business within their competent locality as well as condemning all related culprits according to the existing laws, rules and regulations.

In this spirit, although we have tremendous opportunities in front of us, I would like to request all colleagues to put these recommendations into highly effective implementation with fruitful result for the sake of socio-economic development. In this regard, I strongly believe that Cambodia will move ahead with optimism, progress and prosperity base on a more extensive and favorable foundation together with peace, political stability, national harmonization and sustainable development.

Once again, on behalf of the Royal Government of Cambodia, I would like to take this opportunity to deeply thank the United Nations Development Program in Cambodia who have cooperated with the Ministry of Industry, Mines and Energy in initiating the conference today for Cambodian officials in charge of mines sector and related stakeholders to be well aware about the context of management and development of mine sector and the process of the mining business operation starting from the feasibility studies to the final stage, which can extract the benefit from the underground mineral resources to build and develop the nation. At the same time, I would also like to thank the Australian Aids for International Development Agency and the Cambodian Association of Mine Research and Business Companies that have jointly sponsored this conference.

At the end, together with the opening of the International Conference on Extractive Industries under the theme of “Cambodia’s Opportunity” now, I would like to wish Your Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, national and international guests who have participated in this conference the four gems of Buddhist blessing: Longevity, Nobility, Health and Strength, and may I wish this conference a success with fruitful results.

Keynote Address at the 65th Anniversary of the Establishment of the National Police

May 16, 2010

Excellency Sar Kheng, Deputy Prime Minister and Minster of Interior,

Excellencies Deputy Prime Ministers, Senior Ministers, Ministers, and Secretary of States,

Excellencies Ambassadors,

Excellencies Commander in Chief of the Cambodia Royal Armed Force and Chief of the National Police,

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,

It is indeed my pleasure and honor to be here in the 65^th Anniversary of the Establishment of the National Police being held in year two of the implementation of Political Agenda and the Rectangular Strategy Phase – II of the Royal Government of the 4^th legislature of the National Assembly, and as we are striving to weather the storm of global crisis, strengthening sub-national democratic system, and eliminating drug trafficking and human trafficking, illegal gambling, and other law violations. Especially, this anniversary is being held while all the Cambodian people are pleasurably celebrating the birthday of His Majesty Preah Bat Samdech Preah Boromneath Norodom Sihamoni, the King of Cambodia.

I would like to warmly and momentously congratulate this nationally prideful anniversary which allows us to reflect the heroic and historic activities and mission of the our greatest National Police since the era of French protectorate and to assess their previous year’s achievements for the causes of independence, peace, security, public order and national development.

Taking this opportunity, on behalf of the Royal Government and myself, I would like to sincerely thank and praise all generations of the National Police force for their greatest sacrifice and hard work to ensure national security, especially this generation that inherits braveness from previous ones and strives to strengthen peace and security, key factor of the success of political agenda and other strategies of the Royal Government. In this auspicious event, I would like to extend my profound thanks to Gen. Hok Lundy, former chief of the National Police for his enormous contribution (1994 – 2008) during his 14 years in the post and his demise last year was a great loss to the nation.

I would like to compliment H.E. Sar Kheng, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Interior and Gen. Net Savoeun, Chief of the National Police for their leadership that lead—with collaboration from local authority and other law enforcement agencies—to the successful and effective protection of independence, sovereignty, national security and social order. In particular, I would like to convey my appreciation to National Police for their numerous achievements in the previous year, as aforementioned by Gen. Net Savoeun in his report.

According to our archives on history of the National Police, our people established movement to maintain security and order with concrete spirit and scarification very long time ago. Activities and achievements of the national police within the framework of “Cambodia National Police” for half a century and “Police at Cambodia” for 126 years do not only provide valuable lessons and experiences for better effectiveness in maintaining security and order for the present and future, but also understandings some important national events and socio-economic developments since the mid of 19^th century.

I would like to recall that the National Police has played the most important role in maintaining public security and social order both during pre and post independence since it helped the Ministry of Interior keep provinces/ municipalities in control when the country was facing intensified pressure of the cold war. Due to this important role and mission, the National Police force was strengthened continuously following the attainment of independence, especially Police Academy was established in 1959 and King Norodom Sihanouk, the then head of state, very focused in this area.

The war, erupted on 18 March 1970, weakened all sectors of the country. In the era of Khmer Republic (1970 – 1975), an important event marking the history of Cambodia National Police was the establishment of “Police of the Republic” which was mandated to enforce any instruction imposed by the judiciary and maintain public security and order.

The collapse of the Khmer Republic on 17 April 1975 allowed Pol Pot seizes the power and creates “Democratic Kampuchea” which totally destroyed “the continuity of the society” and began mass killing, the disastrous tragedy. During the regime former police officers was one of the key target and killed to root for 3 years 8 months and 20 days.

Later on, Kampuchean United Front for National Salvation, led by Samdech Moha Ponhea Chakkrei Heng Samrin, mobilized solidarity force from all sources to liberate the country from the Democratic Kampuchea and saved people from massacre on 7 January 1979. A new page of history was turned as the People’s Revolutionary Council was immediately established to fulfill historic roles for protecting, restoring and building the nation. However, this internal war was not over yet. The then government continued to fight with fractions led by Pol Pot’s Democratic Kampuchea until the Cambodia People’s Party initiated a unification scheme which allowed the return of Preah Bat Samdech Preah Norodom Sihanouk and the rebirth of constitution-based monarchy. Later on, the win-win policy brought full peace to our beloved country and full fledge development began ever since.

The police organization was reestablished on 7 January 1979 with its mandate to maintain peace, security and social order and took part in national protection and development as the then Minister of Interior Samdech Akka Thorm Puthisal Chea Sim and other eminent figures led the creation of this force. Faced with unpredictable and complicated internal war, though the National Police was started from scratch, some significant achievements are valueless and show capacitive experiences deserves to be recorded as history of struggle movement for peace, public order and welfare of human society. During the latest stage, for the causes of peace and national order, the National Police has contributed and played key role to prevent non-amity schemes aiming at dividing national solidarity and neighborhood, creating political instability, creating unrest leading to social collapse, preventing terrorism, cracking down cross border crimes and fighting against all sort of crimes. Therefore, lives and wealth of people have been saved, safety of local community has been assured and public order at rural and urban areas has been maintained. Such improvements gained respect and love from our people.

Moreover, the Cambodian National Police show their courage with collaboration from Royal Cambodian Armed Force stationed along the border to protect national integrity and sovereignty against aggressors.

In the current context of global financial crisis, environmental issue, outbreak of disease, terrorism, piracy, nuclear proliferation, border conflict and competition of old and emerged superpower; more or less it will impact on security, socio-economic order and livelihood of Cambodian people.

From last year, the Royal Government of Cambodia has introduced many policies to address the impacts of those crises, particularly economic and financial turbulence, with success. Moreover, many other measures were introduced to address social disturbances and attained positive result as well as gain active support from call classes of people. As far as its concern, the Royal Government remains to consider peace and public order as foundation and a key component to succeed Political Platform and Rectangular Strategy Phase II , as well as national development and poverty reduction. The National Policy forces is a law enforcement institution has a key role and agent for the Ministry of Interior and the Royal Government.

To celebrate 65^th Anniversary of establishment of the National Police Force and to keep great tradition of valor for the cause of homeland security, I would like to outline a number of recommendations for the entire national police forces to implement in 2010 as follows:

First. Continue upholding national flag aiming for further promotion of conscience of loving peace, solidarity and firm national unification. It is necessary to maintain peace climate for the whole country in order to open opportunity for accelerating success of development in all areas as well as to constantly improve livelihood of people in conformity to the Rectangular Strategy Phase II of the Royal Government.

To continue playing historic mandate by associating with current context of New Era, the National Police must strengthen capacity to understand and follow up activities and events that are taking place around the world, in the region and in country in order to help government laying out effective measures for political stability, sound internal solidarity, social harmonization, rooting foundation of democracy, state of law, respect of human right and dignity, as well as to absolutely prevent any terrorism activities which cast destruction and retard national economic development process.

Second. To further open for cooperation with relevant ministries/institutions and police agencies all over the world, to beef up capacity to mobilize information as well as measures to prevent and combat all kinds of cross-border crimes especially drug trafficking, human trafficking, money laundering and arms trafficking etc. Moreover, management of foreigners must be strengthened by actively implementing national tourism policy and must always be prepared not to allow anyone to use Cambodia to hide or conduct any crimes. Immigration issues must be completely addressed without any delay and Labor Law must strictly and clearly enforce to manage foreign workers.

Third. Peace and security are fundamental and integral part of enabling environment for achieving Political platform and strategies of the Royal Government, nevertheless the real situation indicated that all kinds of crimes are remains and stirred up fear and worrisome to some local communities. Those are particularly robbery, murder and gangster fighting. Therefore, a moving forward and progress Cambodian society in both physical and moral happiness is a need and exam for the National Police in fulfill their priority works.

Standing on this foundation, I agree and support proposition of H.E. Deputy Prime Minister Sar Kheng who set theme “Safe Village-Commune” as a contest movement for the National Police from now up to 66^th Anniversary in 2011. Obviously, “Safe Village-Commune” reflects that everything always begins from there. If people at village-commune have happiness, no threat and no disturb, it is already happiness.

Fourth. With respect to the above theme, because of the greatest history of Cambodian National Police and its tradition are for the people and the fact that all-time safety of people demands police; therefore virtue, morality and views of police in timely and honestly serving and protecting are essential exams that all police agencies need to pay attention to, and for every police officer, achieve and should be put as a criteria for the next year contest.

Fifth. I would like to appeal commanders to review the enforcement of traffic code and to call for all relevant ministries/institutions particularly every police officer to continue strictly implementing traffic code by tightening all measures without tolerance and with high professional responsibility aiming at decreasing traffic accidents and enforcing traffic order that is suitable to national development.

In parallel, Police must also pay attention on preventing and fighting against fire. The Ministry of Interior, all levels of local authorities and General Commission of National Police must constantly alert people, prepare public for firefighting, install enough and modernized firefighting equipment and facility, especially fire extinguisher and rescue facility for building with over 10 stories high.

Sixth. I noted and highly appreciated the Ministry of Interior and General Commission of National Police for drafting Law on Police and preparing 5-year Strategic Plan (2008-2013) for National Police with clear annual action plan for executing. I consider this new turning of the Cambodian National Police, following its greatest tradition of 126 years and now have been on the way to ownership and scientifically-based towards international standard, I would like each leader of all levels to continue this working style by evolving into an effective current that improve operation of maintaining security and order.

Seventh. In addition to ensuring security and public order internally, on the behalf of the government, I could not forget courage of all police officers who are stationed along borders, especially at Cambodia-Thai border who until now has been demonstrating their concrete commitment, high responsibility and scarification to protect national integrity and sovereignty along with the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces.

In order to continue marvelous tradition, the Ministry of Interior and General Commission of National Police must strictly follow my recommendation on 6^th February 2010 during the Inauguration Division 3 Military Headquarter to take good care and well support this force by building checkpoint and blockhouse, office, shelters and commanding office in order for them to properly fulfill their duties.

Eighth. to further promote police reform to improve reputation of this institution in Cambodian society. All units must show its capacity with competency and professionalism; hence Royal Police Academy must enhance their program through assessment and review quality of trainees, analyzing actual context and need in new circumstances of security battlefield in order to improve training and provide timely training according to the great demanding of National Police’s tasks.

Ninth. Finally in addition to the above eight recommendations, all levels of the National Police must pay attention to disasters which naturally occur and affect people. So, it must be always ready to conduct emergency rescue without delay, if natural disaster occur accidentally in their region or to be deployed in all possible reach. It must not be careless or allow any person fall as victim without intervention.

For 126 years (1884-2010) except nearly 4 years of the Democratic Kampuchea, the National Police of our country has made enormous prideful activities and achievements for protecting independence, peace, security, public order and social safety.

On behalf of the government, I would like to express profound gratitude to Samdech Preah Vireak Ksat Norodm Sihanouk and Samdech Preah Reach Akka Mohesei for exerting physical and intellectual energy to help the Cambodian National Police during independence period and to wish your majesty healthy and long lives. May I wish your majesty Preah Karuna Preahbath Samdech Baromneath Norodom Sihanouk, the king of the kingdom of Cambodia, healthy for the reign and the warmest umbrella for Cambodian people.

In this auspicious occasion, I would like to convey my due respect and gratitude to all leadership in all eras for supporting building force and capacity of Cambodian National Police to become bigger both quantitatively and quantitatively and to thank Cambodian people for joining mission of National Police in Cambodia since 1884 with conscience of loving nation and a heroic model for our police officer. Especially, I would like sincerely thank Samdech Akka Moha Thama Pothisal Chea Sim, Head of Senate and Samdech Akka Moha Ponhea Chakkrei Heng Samrin, Head of National Assembly, for supporting Cambodian National Police from 1979 to the present.

I would like to take this opportunity to deeply thank the government and police agencies of friend countries and national and international organization for financial and moral supports for development and reform of Cambodian national police and to appeal for continuation of technical assistance to strengthen its capacity.

Finally, I would like to wish excellencies, ladies and gentlemen and entire national police force 4 gems of Buddhist blessings; longevity, nobility, happiness and strength.

Keynote Address at theGround Breaking of the Construction of Charey-Phnom Penh Hospital, Boeung Snor Village, Nirouth Commune, Meanchey District

Phnom Penh, May 15, 2010

Your Venerable Head of Monks,

Your Venerable Monks

Your Excellency LE KHA PHIEU, Former Secretary General of the Communist Part of Vietnam and the delegates,

Excellencies, Oknhas, Distinguished National and International Guests,

Dear the Compatriots,

Today it is my pleasure to attend the “Ground Breaking of the Construction of Charey-Phnom Penh Hospital”. The hospital indeed attests to the strong cooperation between the Kingdom of Cambodia and Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

Taking this opportunity, on behalf of the people and Royal Government of Cambodia I would like to convey profound gratitude to the people and government of Vietnam, through H.E. LE KHA PHIEU, former secretary general of the Communist Party of Vietnam, for the support given to Cambodia during hardship and its contribution in socio-economic development and poverty reduction in Cambodia.

Following the victory against the Pol Pot Regime on 7 January 1979, Cambodia strived to overcome thousands of problems, including the restoration and development of health sector destroyed by the war. Starting from scratch left by the war, we managed to build and run health centers in communes, districts, and municipalities/provinces to provide consultation, health care and treatment services to the people.

Both countries have been working closely in all sectors, including bilateral cooperation and investment, trade, road-bridge infrastructure, agriculture development, education, mine and energy and so forth. These reflect the actual needs of Cambodian people and create a favorable condition for Cambodia’s integration into the region and the globe on egalitarian status. During the global crisis, Vietnam ranked first in terms of FDI flow to Cambodia. Last year, Vietnamese investors invested around USD 900 million in Cambodia. Trade between both countries reached USD 2 billion in 2009; the figure may exceed USD 2 billion in 2010.

According to H.E. Mom BunHeng, Minister of Health, the groundbreaking of the construction of Charey-Phnom Penh hospital is another important event as Cambodia soon will have an international hospital and Cambodian people will have access to quality health services provided domestically. This will not only boost confidence on the quality of health services, but also economic efficiency and reputation of the country.

This achievement will represent another contribution in health sector from the people and government of Vietnam as Cambodia is striving to improve both accessibility and quality of health services. This also reflects improved public-private partnership since we regard private participation as Engine of Growth and a priceless achievement in social welfare and public health in Cambodia.

Cambodia is building a concrete foundation to underpin growth in the long run. In particular, the Royal Government has been implementing Health Sector Development Plan 2008 – 2015 to improve accessibility and quality of health services and behavior of health service providers, ensure sufficient capital flow, strengthen medical staff’s competency, improve health information system for better health financing and governance, management of medical equipments and medicines and regulation of pharmaceutical and medical services provided by the private sector.

The Royal Government has been working hard to assure a favorable business climate that is stable, transparent and predictable for the growth of private sector. On this basis, it has been actively implementing some key policies to promote private-government partnership, facilitate trade, strengthen investment climate, ensure participation of private sector in infrastructure development, and strengthen partnership in health sector especially with development partners to enhance effectiveness of health service delivery. This will translate into poverty reduction and socio-economic development as well as attainment of the spirit of the Rectangular Strategy i.e. growth, employment, equity and efficiency.

In this connection, on behalf of the Royal Government, I would like to compliment Ho Chi Minh City Medical Investment Joint Stock Company and Sok Kong Import Export Co. Ltd on their joint effort with Phnom Penh Municipality and local authority to turn this project into a prideful reality.

Undeniably, utilizing appropriate medical equipment for diagnosis and treatment could address some health challenges in both the present and future time. Therefore, investment in modern medical technologies—modern tools, equipments and facilities—is very important and a key component to enhance service quality. Even with individuals’ competency, technology per se is not enough. Quality of service depends on some other essential aspects such as prevention of infection, hygiene and good environment in hospitals as well as professionalism in treatment. In this regard, we should place attention on human resource factor and provide training to physicians, doctors and skilled staff to acquire new knowledge and technology and to double effectiveness of health services.

Physician and medical staff, whose obligation is to deliver treatment and health care services must improve their attitude and follow the professional code of conduct when communicating with and providing treatment and health care services to patients. Undoubtedly, this work must base on technical principle, virtue, good conduct and firm stand as a dependable guardian of patients. Moreover, each hospital should continue to promote medical research and strengthen cooperation with medical universities, private sector, NGOs, professional associations and research unit of the Health Ministry to share experiences and development of this field. Moreover, I would like to urge all hospitals and clinics not to use counterfeit medicines and medical equipments, which may exacerbate illness of patients.

In short, by providing responsible health care services, we could change the attitude of patients seeking consultation, diagnosis, treatment and care services, which lead to the improvement, confidence and economic efficiency of public health in Cambodia. This will genuinely contribute to economic growth and better reputation of the country.

In addition to existing achievements, Cambodia needs more contribution from development partners and private sector for development and investment in health sector to improve welfare as a whole. Moreover, there are big potentials for investment in some sectors including agriculture, agro-industry, infrastructure, labor-intensive manufacturing, export-oriented industry, oil, natural gas, mining and tourism. Those potentials have not been fully tapped and represent a great opportunity for investors. Furthermore, development cooperation Asean-Mekong opens up even more. Therefore, I am pleased to urge Vietnamese investors to come to assess the possibility of investment and discuss with Cambodian partners. I strongly believe that Vietnamese investors and businessmen will be successful in turning opportunities in Cambodia into successful investment projects such as rubber processing, fertilize production, hydro-electricity power plant, telecommunication, banking and finance, mining, tourism and civil aviation. In this light, on behalf of the Royal Government, as always, I declare the openness of Cambodia’s economy for all investors with no racial discrimination and continue to offer a favorable climate for investment to accelerate growth.

Once again, I would to encourage cooperation between Ho Chi Minh City Medical Investment Joint Stock Company and Sok Kong Import Export Co. Ltd as well as all levels of local authorities to complete the construction of this hospital as planned. Moreover, this hospital must take part to realize the vision of Cambodia Health Sector Development, especially with regard to restoration and expansion of physical infrastructure as well as institutional and human capacity development to expand the coverage of health service delivery and respond to people’s needs. In this spirit, I strongly hope that Vietnam will boost the bilateral cooperation and jointly seek new opportunities for prosperity and long amity tie of both countries.

Finally, along with the ground breaking for the construction of Charey-Phnom Penh Hospital, I would like to wish your venerable monks, His Excellency LE KHA PHIEU and delegates, Excellencies, Oknhas, ladies and gentlemen, and all the compatriots four gems of Buddhist blessing.

Thank you for your attention!

Keynote Address at the Commemoration of the 147th Anniversary of the World Red Cross-Red Crescent Day

Keynote Address at the Commemoration of the 147^th Anniversary of the World Red Cross-Red Crescent Day

Under the Theme of “Saving Lives – Changing Mindsets”

Phnom Penh, 8^th May 2010

- Excellencies, Oknhas, Ladies and Gentlemen,

- Distinguished National and International Guests!

Today, it is indeed my pleasure and honor to be here once again in the Commemoration of the 147^th Anniversary of the World Red Cross-Red Crescent Day, under the theme of “Saving Lives – Changing Mindsets”, as all the Cambodian people had just received the blessings of the Khmer New Year, the Year of Tiger 2554 B.E. in mid April this year. Also, as all the Cambodian people are bracing for the celebration of the birthday of HIS MAJESTY the KING, NORODOM SIHAMONI OF CAMBODIA, I would like to reaffirm my unflinching sincerity to HIS MAJESTY who have always treated his people with compassion, provided the most valuable support to the Royal Government in the pursuit of peace, national stability, solidarity and social development, and taken part humanitarianly in improving the standard of living and harmony among the people. I, with deepest respect, would like to wish HIS MAJESTY NORODOM SIHANOUK, the KING-FATHER OF CAMBODIA, HER MAJESTY NORODOM MONINEATH SIHANOUK, the QUEEN MOTHER OF CAMBODIA and HIS MAJESTY KING NORODOM SIHAMONI OF CAMBODIA longevity, healthiness, and wisdom to remain as the umbrella of all Cambodian people.

This is an important event for the Cambodian Red Cross as well as the Royal Government and the people of Cambodia as it attests to the common will, determination and effort among all stakeholders to bolster socio-economic development and rescue people threaten by natural disasters.

Taking this opportunity, on behalf of the Royal Government and myself, I would like to extend my deep appreciation to H.E. Dr. Bun Rany HUN SEN, president of the Cambodian Red Cross, all levels of management and officials of the organization, Cambodian Red Cross volunteers, as well as donors, national and international organizations for the support and well cooperation in implementing humanitarian acts within the framework all strategic plans of the Cambodian Red Cross and numerous achievements have been made. I would like to note that the Cambodian Red Cross has been an instrumental force in social development, poverty reduction and the protection of humanity.

In particular, over the last decade, the Cambodian Red Cross fulfilled its role efficiently in life rescue missions, response and prevention against natural disasters, diseases e.g. HIV/AIDS, dengue fever, bird flu, participation in public health services, promotion of the principle and value of humanity, provision of first aid services in community, supply of clean water, early warning system for flood, drought and storm, education, reduction of UXOs casualties, and traffic safety and so forth. Along with this, we acknowledge that the Cambodian Red Cross has always faced with daunting challenge in mobilizing human and financial resources, rescue equipments, and other support to respond effectively to the urgent needs of victims. However, in spite of some drawbacks, the Cambodian Red Cross has received technical, financial and mental support from national and international organizations, domestic and overseas donors. These contributions have always been effectively and transparently managed and utilized for saving the victims without racial, sexual, political and religious discrimination. These donations and kindhearted attitudes reflect mutual care and support of our people during difficult time. Base on critical thinking methodology, this kindness is the spirit inherited from the cultural heritage of our ancestors dating back centuries ago, and this spirit has been flourishing in the mindset of Cambodian people of this generation and has been evolving into the “culture of sharing”, which is the foundation and guideline for the starting of humanitarian activities of the Cambodian Red Cross Movement which is the biggest humanitarian organization in the country since its inception on 18^th February 1955.

The increasing demand for natural resources to meet the demand of economic developments of developing countries in the world, characterized by globalization, has triggered climate change and global warming. Given this reality, I am of the view that more disasters of huge magnitude will occur in the future and pose threat to security, safety and livelihood of mankind all over the world. Of that, Cambodian people will not be able to escape from impact of those disasters. Obviously, disasters such as Ketsana typhoon which occurred in 2009 and the recent cyclone which destroyed houses, property and claimed the lives of our people several weeks ago are clear examples. In this sense, I strongly believe that from now on, the Cambodian Red Cross will always be the biggest humanitarian institution in Cambodia and continue to play the role as an effective assistant to the government and active partner to all stakeholders in humanitarian sector to address and relieve all struggles of our people. In this essence, I would like to remind the Cambodia Red Cross to continue making effort to actively and strongly fulfill its mission aiming at making achievements as inscribed in the vision of the Cambodia Red Cross for the cause of “Saving Lives - Changing Mindsets” of the general public in relation to humanitarian issues, promoting the virtue of mankind and contributing to poverty reduction of the people.

In this spirit, I would like to highly value the Cambodia Red Cross for making effort to strengthen and develop its institutional capacity until receiving the recognition and support from national and international development partners and donors in the region and the world. At the same time, I still give full support to the idea of involving volunteers, particularly youth, into Cambodia Red Cross’s activities such as raising the awareness, preventing and responding to disasters, providing health care and fundamental first aid services to victims. Indeed, the government has always given priority and attention to socio-economic development in order to ensure the support for humanitarian activities of Cambodia Red Cross. Undeniably, the difficulty that we are facing is huge, but it is incomparable to the misery and suffering which happened during Pol Pot genocidal regime and the struggle after 7^th January 1979. During that time, we were living in extreme exhaustion without sufficient food, with diseases and mental scars. Nevertheless, we could together overcome all obstacles gradually.

I may recall that during that hard time, the Cambodia Red Cross was reborn from the disruption of war and worked with the government to relieve the hardship of the people, especially rescued people from starvation and all kinds of struggles. In this regards, I do believe that to this end, the Cambodia Red Cross must continue to give priority to strongly, deeply and more extensively fulfilling its humanitarian missions in “Saving Lives - Changing Mindsets” of mankind which aims at mobilizing great national and international solidarity force to prevent, combat and to cope with all disasters that will happen to our Cambodian people in a timely, effective and efficient manner.

Now a day the world is confronting with natural catastrophes such as earthquake, seaquake that causes the tsunami, volcanic eruption and hurricane, which occur more frequently and at bigger magnitude causing devastation to property, houses, crops, rice field and farms and people’s lives and cast burden to the society. At the same time, due to development gap, people migrated from the rural areas to urban and populated areas and this trend is on the rise in a number of countries all over the world, especially in developing and least developed countries. Apparently, over the last two decades, in cities of developing countries, the population reaches almost 95%, this trend makes cause anarchic dwelling and construction of houses in cities and urban areas. Furthermore, the demand for energy and food and the economic, social and health problems are on the rise. Moreover, the more concerning issues are those relating to construction and urbanization. Due to the fact that infrastructure system has not been in order and not conforming to the technical standard, various obstacles for the human acts such as traffic accidents, congestion, fire, sewage stuck, and these issues have been known to have cast negative impact on the socio-economic development as well as placing heavy burden on the whole nation.

According to this view, I would like to fully support the Cambodia Red Cross who has selected the theme of “Saving Lives – Changing Mindsets” as the key message for its campaign during the Commemoration of the 147^th Anniversary of the World Red Cross-Red Crescent Day 8^th May this year and for including it in the strategic framework 2011-2020 by highlighting the 3 significant mottos as the catalysts to strengthen the life saving activity, hence, to ”take more actions” “make it better” and “take a step deeper and farther than before” in its humanitarian operation in order to continue to contribute to poverty reduction, enhancement of the respect of human rights and dignity of human being. Along with this, I would like to appeal to people in all levels, institutions, authorities and related units to put further effort, and closely and actively cooperate for the cause of transforming the above slogan and 3 mottos to be a practical and constant activity like drizzling rain in order to solve all challenges faced by the people in the sense of “Saving lives – Changing Mindsets” base on the 7 main principles of the World Red Cross-Red Crescent Movement, which includes being “humanitarian, impartial, neutral, independent, voluntary and universal”.

In this connection, I would like to put up a number of recommendations for the Cambodia Red Cross and related ministries/institutions to effectively implement in order to contribute to successfully realize the vision of the Cambodia Red Cross and to conform to the joint vision of the Royal Government in socio-economic development. Those recommendations include:

1. The Cambodia Red Cross must pay attention to prepare the detailed, clear and comprehensive action plan by having them divided into phases that are interconnected from one phase to another in order to ensure consistency and success in implementing the strategic framework 2011-2020 effectively. At the same time, Cambodia Red Cross must continue closer cooperation with related ministries/institutions, local authorities as well as development partners in preparing to prevent and take action more effectively to help the victims by following the 7 main principles of the world red cross red crescent movement.

2. The Cambodia Red Cross must continue further intensive effort in attracting funds from donors in order to ensure ownership in implementing its working mission better, deeper and more comprehensive with the objective to contribute to poverty reduction of our Cambodian people.

3. The Cambodia Red Cross must continue to implement its obligations more extensively and constantly in training about the methodology of preventing danger, awareness and pre-use of information system for the community, central and local government by paying special attention to the red cross youth and all related actors in order to make sure that they have sufficient ability and appropriate experiences to implement their duties at high level of success.

4. All related ministries/institutions as well as local authorities in all levels must pay further attention in cooperating and supporting with efficiency the operation of the implementation of the humanitarian mission of the Cambodian Red Cross such as disseminating information about traffic safety, HIV, basic primary support, community health service delivery and the saving of victims from various disasters.

5. The municipal, provincial, district and communal authorities must work closely and constantly with the people at their localities in order to be well aware about vulnerability, vulnerable areas and people in their responsible community, and must prepare clear data system in order to make it easy to prevent and take action against impacts and destruction of the people when the calamities happen. At the same time, they must closely cooperate with Cambodian Red Cross in order to get to know the real needs of the local people and take immediate and effective action for the vulnerable.

Once again, I would like to thank and appreciate Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, management and officials at all levels of the Cambodia Red Cross and related ministries/institutions, who have made greatest efforts in this humanitarian work for the victims in Cambodia. I would also like to convey my deepest thank to Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, national and international guests who have made utmost efforts in preparing this solemn meeting today.

Taking this opportunity, I would like to deeply thank Your Venerable Monks, compatriots, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, national and international guests and all development partners, who have contributed financial, spiritual and technical supports for the operation of this humanitarian acts of the Cambodia Red Cross in all circumstances.

At the end, I would like to wish Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, national and international guests, especially the management and officials of the Cambodia Red Cross the four gems of Buddhist blessing: Longevity, Nobility, Health and Strength.

EndItem.

Speech at the Inauguration of Waste Water Treatment Plant and Sewage System in Siem Reap City

Siem Reap Province, 22th April 2010

Honorable Chief of Monks, SarSanak Sam Vor Reak, Moul Ron, Venerable Monks,

Your Excellency PUTU KAMAYANA, Country Director, Asia Development Bank, Cambodia Resident Mission

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, National and International Guests,

Beloved Citizens!

Today it is my great pleasure to attend the official inauguration of the Waste Water Treatment Plant and Sewage System in Siem Reap City, funded by the ADB loan, under the Great Mekong Sub-regional Tourism Development Project.

Taking this opportunity, on behalf of the RGC and Cambodian people, I would like to convey my profound gratitude to the leadership and all fund providers of the Asia Development Bank who have always been supporting the government and people of Cambodia constantly since 1993 for the rehabilitation and development of Cambodian economy and society through making improvement in infrastructures of all areas, particularly the public works and transportation sectors. The ADB had provided a loan with the amount of USD 10.08 million for the construction of this Waste Water Treatment Plant and Sewage System in Siem Reap city and other loan schemes for the reconstruction of Cambodian railroads and the rehabilitation of the two-way railroads as well as reconnecting the old railroad which was disconnected during civil war that link Poipet to Sisophon.

Obviously, the construction of this sewage system and waste water treatment plant has multifaceted roles in promoting economic growth and social development and upgrading national reputation. For instance, the construction of this sewage system and waste water treatment plant not only help to improve environmental protection and scenery that can attract investments and tourists in all sectors, but it also raises the welfare of the people, animals and plants and reduce city flood because Siem Reap province is the center for cultural tourism and temples which are the priceless world heritages of Cambodia, situated in mountainous and rain forest area with high level of rainfall that flows into Siem Reap city before continuing into Tonle Sap which is the national fish source that has been providing food for nutrition for the whole Cambodian people. Furthermore, it also help supply water for irrigating the agricultural land because the poisonous and smelly waste water that has been discharged into the reservoir of treatment plant are to be processed step-by-step into useable water for watering rice and farm land, that is safe to the health and life of people, animals and plants. Taking this opportunity, I would like to encourage that the treated water be used for farming, rather than drain it into Tonle Sap lake.

With reference to the important role of this Waste Water Treatment Plant and Sewage System, this achievement will promote the effective role of Siem Reap province in attracting more and more national and international tourists from day to day. Now, it is necessary to provide better and more responsive services to the needs of the customers, including the development of drainage system to avoid flood in the city and disruption to the travelling of tourists and for timely farming of vegetable and fruits. Because, tourism is a mean for collecting national revenue and generating employment for the citizens, and it is harmless to the environment, in which the world is worried about due to climate change which caused severe natural disasters in a number of countries. At the same time, we are proudly enjoying peace, safety, security and social order on this land of unity, solidarity and cooperation with neighboring countries. Due to our tireless effort in building roads, bridges, rail ways, water ways, and air ways across the country and connecting with neighboring countries in the region and the world, the national and international investors, tourists had gradually increased. All these factors coupled with population growth, caused the fast expansion and construction of state owned buildings, private accommodation, hotels, all kinds of factories, enterprises, that are required to have insurance conforming to the international standard in order to divert waste water from those buildings through the construction of this Waste Water Treatment Plant and Sewage System.

It is difficult to construct this infrastructure, but the management of this achievement to be highly effective in both technical and administrative issues is even more difficult, requiring high responsibility for the sustainable interest of the whole nation; and I would like the Ministry of Public Work and Transports, who is the implementing agency in constructing this Waste Water Treatment Plant and Sewage System, to be in charge of this project with and effective, transparent and highly responsible management through the regime of using Revenue to Support Expenditure, that is to ensure good governance and accountability on the technical, administrative and business aspects of this infrastructure.

I would like to take this opportunity to appreciate and fully support the cooperation between the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Public Work and Transports in jointly constructing this infrastructure with mixed roles and functions; and I would like to encourage and urge the Ministry of Public Work and Transports to continue close cooperation with the Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology and the Ministry of Environment in effectively utilizing this Waste Water Treatment Plant for agriculture sector with higher productivity and for sustaining the environmental protection and welfare of the people, animals and plants.

The construction of this Waste Water Treatment is aimed at maintaining the welfare of the people, animals and plants, which is the unavoidable obligation that must go along with the renovation and development of other sectors throughout the country, especially in the provinces, according to the efforts made by the Royal Government under the collaboration and support from development partners such as the Asian Development Bank (ADB) as well as the active participation and efforts made by all related ministries/institutions, local authorities in all levels and workers, employees all over the country in restoring and rebuilding various physical infrastructures to make sure that the whole nation is politically stable, cohesive and peaceful and reform-oriented in all sectors in order to strengthen good governance to achieve economic growth and socio-economic development, especially the promotion of mixed transportation system in potential areas in Siem Reap, in which the Ministry of Public Work and Transports has been rebuilding, renovating and maintaining the road network connecting from all parts of the country, in particular, connecting to Siem Reap province such as: National Road No.5, No.6, No.67, No.68, No.62 and the Provincial Roads, aiming to promote the tourism supported activities, trade and create favorable environment for the industry, agriculture, education, health and push for employment growth in order to increase income to enhance the living standard of the people and national budget, aiming at achieving fast poverty reduction of the people.

In order to achieve this goal and for the sake of a bright future of Cambodia, I would like to convey my message to all institutions of the Royal Government, local authorities and all people to work more intensively and increase closer and more active cooperation with each other with transparency and high efficiency in order to improve the transport physical infrastructure together with the process of Waste Water Treatment Plant with the objective to build confidence among the customers, national and international investors and development partners on our commitment to national development and rehabilitation.

I would like to appreciate the efforts made by all related ministries/institutions, all levels of local authorities, who have cooperated in boosting the construction of Waste Water Treatment Plant in Siem Reap province successfully and I would like to congratulate the China National Aero-Technology International Engineering Corporation (CATIC) and Technical Advisor Nippon Jogesuido Sekkei Co., Ltd (NJS) and SAWAC Cambodia, that have tried to implement the construction of this Waste Water Treatment Plant project with high technology and quality according to the scheduled timeframe.

Before ending, I would like to recall once again to you all to take extra care while travelling because trips to various resorts are crowded. Therefore, if we are not careful enough there will be traffic accidents that can cause death, injury, and disability that are the root of poverty and miserly in families as well as in the society. Thus, I would like all people, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, especially students who are youth to pursue the next generation of leadership, to know how to protect your lives by always wearing helmets while riding motorcycles, if you happen to drive it should not exceed 90 Km/hr outside the city center and should not exceed 40 Km/hr in the down town and must wear seat belt at all times while being in the car and you must not drink while driving.

At the end, I would like to wish the Honorable Chief of Monk in Siem Reap, Venerable Monks, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, National, International Distinguished Guests and all Compatriots the four gems of Buddhist blessing: Longevity, Nobility, Health and Strength. May I now declare the Official Inauguration of Waste Water Treatment Plant and Sewage System in Siem Reap!