Phnom Penh:The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has reiterated its commitment to supporting Cambodia in its pursuit of green economic development and climate resilience. This was confirmed during a meeting between Minister of Environment H.E. Dr. Eang Sophalleth and ADB Country Director for Cambodia, Ms. Yasmin Siddiqi, held at the Ministry of Environment.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the meeting underscored the ADB's role as a key strategic development partner for Cambodia. Minister Eang Sophalleth expressed his gratitude towards the ADB, emphasizing the importance of their support in implementing the Royal Government's environmental policies and strategies. These initiatives include campaigns for a clean Cambodia, reforestation efforts, waste management, and climate change mitigation.

Ms. Yasmin Siddiqi praised the Ministry of Environment's achievements, particularly in promoting cleanliness campaigns led by students and young people. She confirmed that the ADB would continue offering technical assistance and financing to enhance projects related to green development, food security, and climate resilience.

Discussions during the meeting also focused on cooperation in conserving natural protected areas and ecosystem protection, aiming to balance environmental sustainability with socio-economic growth and climate change challenges. The ADB and the Ministry explored ways to strengthen climate resilience in communities within protected areas and support coastal conservation efforts, including crab stock and mangrove forest preservation, to bolster local livelihoods and ensure long-term food security.

Additionally, the parties discussed initiatives to attract green investment and create a transparent carbon credit market, aligning with Cambodia's goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.