PHNOM PENH: The Government of Japan has provided more than US $180,000 to Cambodia for the construction of a concrete bridge in Kampong Speu province and an irrigation system in Kampong Cham province.

Around US $99,212 will be allocated to the Department of Public Works and Transport of Kampong Speu Province for the construction of a concrete bridge, while US $87,644 will be allocated to the Department of Water Resources and Meteorology of Kampong Cham Province for the construction of an irrigation system.

Speaking at the signing ceremony of the grant agreement on Monday, 5 December 2022, the Deputy Chief of Mission of the Embassy of Japan in Cambodia, Taninai Ichitomo, said that he expects the concrete bridge project in Kampong Speu will benefit 3,300 local people by facilitating the transportation of agricultural products as well as the daily commute of students and people to the nearest schools, markets, and health centers throughout the year.

Additionally, he expects improving the irrigation system in Kampong Cham will help ensure the supply of daily and agricultural water to more than 4,500 local people.

The Deputy Chief of Mission noted that Cambodia has been developing rapidly, but he also acknowledged that Cambodia still has some challenges that need to be addressed to improve the quality of life of its people.

He stated that Japan will continue to contribute to addressing these challenges through various forms of economic and development cooperation, such as through the KUSANONE Grant.

It should be noted that in the last 30 years since 1991, the Embassy of Japan in Cambodia has contributed to more than 660 projects throughout Cambodia through the Kusanone Grant.