Cambodia: Cambodia and India have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the construction of a kindergarten in Koh Kong Province under India's Quick Impact Projects (QIPs) initiative, reaffirming their strong development partnership.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the MoU, titled 'Construction of a Kindergarten at Peam Kay Primary School, Phnhi Meas Commune, Koh Kong Province,' was signed by H.E. Ms. Chhi Va, Governor of Koh Kong province, and H.E. Vanlalvawna Bawitlung, Ambassador of India to the Kingdom of Cambodia, representing the Indian Ministry of External Affairs. The signing ceremony was attended by H.E. Chea Sovy, Deputy Governor, along with senior provincial and local officials and invited guests.

Under the project, a kindergarten comprising two classrooms and appropriate sanitation facilities will be constructed to provide a safe, inclusive, and stimulating learning environment for children aged three to five in Phnhi Meas commune. The initiative aims to strengthen early childhood education and promote the holistic development of young learners in the community.

The project follows the recent successful e-inauguration of the Pre- and Post-Partum Maternity Care Centre at Koh Sdach Communal Hospital, supported by the Government of India under the Mekong-Ganga Cooperation (MGC) framework. The centre is already contributing to improved maternal and child healthcare services in Koh Sdach and surrounding areas.

India's development cooperation in Koh Kong Province also extends to humanitarian mine action. In 2023, the Embassy of India and the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA) signed a grant agreement supporting mine clearance activities, leading to Botum Sakor and Sre Ambel districts being declared mine-free, thereby improving safety and livelihoods for local communities.

Cambodia is a key partner in India's Act East Policy. Under the Mekong-Ganga Cooperation framework, India supports ten Quick Impact Projects annually in Cambodia across sectors including health, education, sanitation, agriculture, and women's empowerment. To date, 70 QIPs have been supported, with 49 projects completed and 21 currently under implementation in close coordination with the Royal Government of Cambodia.