AKP Phnom Penh, May 30, 2025 --

H.E. Hem Vanndy, Minister of Industry, Science, Technology & Innovation, attended the ADB Water & Urban Development Forum 2025 in Manila, Philippines on May 29 where he shared Cambodia’s experience and strategic partnerships in driving socio-economic transformation.

According to the Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology & Innovation, H.E. Hem Vanndy met with ADB Vice President Scott Morris and emphasised the importance of ADB’s continued support for Cambodia’s efforts to build livable and resilient communities by aligning ADB's Strategy 2030 with the Government's Pentagonal Strategy Phase I and other national policies.

“ADB can play a transformative role in advancing livable and resilient communities in Cambodia by adopting a multi-dimensional approach that integrates infrastructure development, climate resilience, technological innovation, and research & development (R&D),” he said.

H.E. Minister also participated as a featured panelist in the high-level plenary session “Beyond the Loan: Strategic Partnership as the Cornerstone of National Development.”

“Cambodia increasingly relies on non-financial partnerships—such as technical cooperation and capacity building—to support development efforts where financial resources are limited,” he added.

In separate meetings with ADB Vice President Fatima Yasmin and Executive Director Rachel Thompson, he outlined Cambodia’s top priorities in building resilient communities and livable cities. These include strengthening and valuing water supply, promoting technology and innovation, advancing public-private partnerships (PPPs), and enhancing climate resilience.

AKP