SIEM REAP: Building coherence in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Agreement on Climate Change through Circular Economy is a key topic of discussion at the 11th Regional 3R and Circular Economy Forum in Asia and the Pacific being hosted in Siem Reap.

Secretary of State and Spokesperson for the Cambodian Ministry of Environment, Net Pheaktra, said that technical officials from various countries in Asia and the Pacific, including partner organizations, have been actively discussing and reviewing common problems encountered and what solutions can be devised.

He said that speakers from the Cambodia, Vietnam, Australia, the Philippines, UNIDO made presentations on key topics, including: sustainable and bio-economic rotation, opportunities and the way forward, carbon neutrality, the role of the circular economy, the catalyst for joint action for small and medium enterprises leading to low carbon transformation, Cambodia's long-term development strategy, and Cambodia's roadmap for sustainable use and productivity, circular economic, and environment action plan.

Secretary of State Neth Pheaktra stated that everyone agreed that the transition to a circular economy is necessary to achieve both the SDGs and the Climate Change Goals agreed upon by the international community, as well as to help rebuild the world economy, making it stronger and greener as countries demonstrate the need for greater financial and technical capacities.

He added that Cambodia has developed a circular economic strategy to help improve many aspects of the economy and society, and achieve environmental sustainability by promoting more efficient use of energy and material resources, while minimizing the impact of resource overuse and waste generation.

The Secretary of State said that Cambodia is in a strong position to achieve sustainable development through a circular economy, building on strong economic growth and a growing young consumer base.