AKP Phnom Penh, July 05, 2025 -- 

Minister of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation, H.E. Hem Vanndy, received here on July 4 H.E. Jacques Pellet, Ambassador of France to Cambodia, for a farewell meeting to mark the end of the Ambassador’s successful tenure.

According to the Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation (MISTI), both sides praised the deep and strategic partnership between Cambodia and France, especially in water supply development and industrial cooperation through the French Development Agency (AFD).

Minister Vanndy expressed appreciation for France’s long-term commitment, highlighting AFD’s transition from financing standalone projects to supporting sector-wide reform.

“When you talk about sector, you’re also talking about policy, sustainability and long-term transformation,” he said. “France has not just been a partner in funding, but a friend in reform.”

Ambassador Pellet echoed this sentiment, describing the water supply partnership as “one of the most successful” for France in Cambodia. He highlighted the capacity of French companies operating the Phnom Penh Water Supply Authority (PPWSA) project without accidents and is now being used as a model for national reform. “This is not just a project, but a coherent journey—linking skills training, public utility development, and policy reform,” he noted.

Minister Vanndy also emphasised the importance of leveraging PPWSA’s capacity, stressing its role in leading broader sector transformation. He reiterated the need for strategic investments, modern infrastructure, and exploring smart financing options to ensure sustainability.

Beyond water, the Minister encouraged France to deepen cooperation in technology, research, and manufacturing modernisation. “We must go through industrialization before we can leap to high-value industries and service-driven economy,” he said. “We look forward to working with France on joint research and training through institutions like ITC.”

Both sides expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming 20th Francophonie Summit 2026 in Siem Reap and opportunities to deepen bilateral ties, especially as Cambodia is moving closer to LDC graduation.

AKP