Phnom Penh:A memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed between Phnom Penh and Ho Chi Minh City on Monday to commence an $8 million construction project for the Cambodia-Vietnam Friendship School. The project is funded by the government and people of Vietnam. According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the signing ceremony took place in Ho Chi Minh City, attended by Maj. Gen. Vo Van Dien, commander of the Ho Chi Minh City High Command, and Phnom Penh Governor H.E. Khuong Sreng. The agreement will see Vietnam funding the construction of new facilities and renovations at the school complex. The project includes a primary school building with 80 classrooms, a laboratory, and a computer room; a secondary school building with 24 classrooms, a laboratory, and a computer room; and the renovation of 15 classrooms in the Samdech Techo building. It also includes a multi-purpose sports facility, a shared administrative building, and necessary equipment for over 5,500 students and teachers. Scheduled for completion within a year, the project will be managed by the Ho Chi Minh City High Command. Maj. Gen. Vo Van Dien requested administrative support from Phnom Penh authorities for smooth implementation. Governor Khuong Sreng confirmed that Phnom Penh has completed essential preparations, including site clearing and infrastructure connections, to facilitate project commencement. He expressed gratitude to Vietnam for their support in enhancing educational facilities in Phnom Penh. The Cambodia-Vietnam Friendship School symbolizes the strong relationship between the two countries, emphasizing solidarity, friendship, and cooperation. The project's groundbreaking ceremony was previously held in 2026, led by Cambodian and Vietnamese senior officials.