*Phnom Penh, March 12, 2024:* The Minister of Rural Development, Chhay Rithy Sen, spearheaded a pivotal meeting with both local and international non-governmental organizations (NGOs), aimed at strategizing and bolstering partnerships to propel Cambodia's rural development agenda.
The gathering convened high-ranking officials, alongside representatives from 44 local and international NGOs, who participated via an online platform (Zoom), underscoring the significance of collaborative efforts in rural advancement.
Commencing with an overview by Pho Pharith, Secretary of State, detailing ongoing NGO collaborations, the Ministry highlighted active cooperation agreements with 33 international NGOs and numerous local counterparts, all dedicated to targeted development initiatives spanning Cambodia's provinces and capital.
Minister Chhay Rithy Sen articulated the Royal Government's ambitious mission under the leadership of Prime Minister Hun Manet, underlining the objective to transition Cambodia into a high middle-income country by 2030 and a high-income country by 2050. This vision aligns with the Pentagon Strategy's emphasis on employment growth, equity, efficiency, and sustainability, anchored by five strategic priorities: people, roads, water, electricity, and digital technology.
Furthermore, the Minister delineated the Ministry of Rural Development's four priority programs geared towards elevating rural living standards through physical infrastructure development, enhancement of rural community living conditions, diversification of rural economic activities, and fortification of institutional capacities.
Emphasizing the indispensable role of ongoing collaboration between the Royal Government and NGOs, particularly in rural development endeavors, Chhay Rithy Sen advocated for deeper engagement. He spotlighted the development of model villages as a focal point, with 30 model villages currently under development and plans for further expansion.
The dialogue also provided a platform for NGOs to share insights, accomplishments, and experiences, fostering a collaborative environment conducive to developmental progress. The Minister welcomed suggestions and feedback to enhance synergy between the Ministry and its NGO partners, underscoring the shared objective of enhancing rural livelihoods and fostering environmentally sustainable and culturally enriched communities.
This dialogue underscores the Ministry of Rural Development's unwavering commitment to nurturing partnerships with NGOs, with the aim of achieving substantial advancements in rural development under the strategic guidance and leadership of Prime Minister Hun Manet.
