Phnom penh: Senate President Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen has called on Mondulkiri provincial authorities to strengthen cross-border cooperation with Vietnam to promote bilateral trade and economic growth. The call came during his meeting with about 500 provincial, municipal, district, commune, and Sangkat council members, as well as leaders of provincial departments and institutions, at the Mondulkiri Provincial Hall on Tuesday.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, Mondulkiri Governor H.E. Kong Kimny highlighted the province's four border crossings with Vietnam, three of which are operational, and its significant socio-economic progress under successive Royal Governments. Mondulkiri has approximately 123,685 hectares of agricultural and agro-industrial land, producing more than 524,000 tonnes of crops annually. It is a major producer of rubber and cashew nuts and boasts 105 tourist destinations supported by a growing tourism industry. In the mining sector, the province hosts 18 companies operating under 21 licenses, with Renaissance Minerals (Cambodia) having produced more than 18 tonnes of gold since 2021.

Samdech Techo urged local authorities to improve public service delivery, enhance tax and customs collection, and combat tax evasion to increase national revenue. He emphasized maintaining national stability and public security through the Safe Village-Commune Policy, calling for stronger action against crimes such as robbery, drug trafficking, and cybercrime. Additionally, he urged authorities to focus on veterans and retirees, settle land disputes impartially, and prioritize out-of-court resolutions.

The Senate President further stressed the importance of protecting natural resources by preventing environmental crimes, particularly in mining activities, to ensure sustainable development in Mondulkiri. The visit marked his 17th provincial outreach mission and meetings with officials in the 20th province as part of his nationwide engagement with local authorities.