PHNOM PENH: The Ministry of Environment has promoted for a strengthened Partnerships in Environmental Management for the Seas of East Asia for a sustainable and resilient welfare for seas, oceans, communities and the economy. Environment Minister Say Sam Al says, "It is imperative that our PEMSEA strengthens and promotes sustainable and resilient well-being for our seas and oceans, communities and economies in this East Asia Sea through integrated solutions, management and partnerships.”

Minister Say Sam Al was speaking at the opening ceremony of the East Asia Sea Conference 2021 being held in Sihanoukville with the theme "Creating a New Decade for Ocean, People and Economy" on Wednesday. He has highlighted the achievements that resulted from the cooperation of the partnerships and organizations stating that these are laying a solid foundation for an agenda to ensure maritime protection, sustainable livelihoods, and a sustainable green economy.

Based on records, PEMSEA has achieved more than 17% of the region’s coastal coverage under the Joint Coastal Management program which covers more than 42,000 kilometres of coastline and more than 146 million people living in the region. Cambodia has 440 kilometres long sea and marine sector including fisheries, ports and transportation within the coastal tourism.

According to the country’s GDP growth, 16% of which the coastal tourism accounted for 85%. The Minister of Tourism has added that the East Asian Sea has one-third of the world's mangroves, seagrass and coral. He says the sea contributes between 15 to 20% of the gross domestic product of 10-40% of the world’s fishery products and 80% of the world’s marine aquaculture. He says it also represents 90% of maritime navigation, as the region has five major ports and receives 26% of international tourist arrivals. According to him these are the key areas that lead to regional economic growth, ensure food security, reduce poverty, reduce employment and improve people’s lives.