AKP Phnom Penh, December 19, 2025 --

The European Union (EU) to Cambodia has announced over US$22 million to the Royal Government of Cambodia for sector reforms in the education, fisheries and public finance management.

H.E. Igor Driesmans, EU Ambassador to Cambodia, confirmed the transfer in 2025 of 19.5 EUR (approximately over US$22 million) to the Royal Government of Cambodia in a bilateral dialogue here on Dec. 18 with H.E. Dr. Aun Pornmoniroth, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance. 

"By promoting transparency and sound public finance, including effective tax systems, we help build a predictable business environment that supports investment and long-term economic growth," said Ambassador Driesmans.

H.E. Dr. Aun Pornmoniroth stated, "The Royal Government of Cambodia is strongly committed to successfully implementing the Public Financial Management Reform Programme (PFMRP) to achieve budget credibility, financial accountability, budget-policy linkages, and performance accountability, which aims for the efficiency, transparency, accountability, and sustainability of public financial management to support macroeconomic stability, economic growth, and social equity."

In the meeting, both sides reaffirmed their strong partnership and review progress in key areas of cooperation.

The meeting focused on recent macro-economic and fiscal developments in Cambodia and in the EU, including growth prospects, emerging risks, and trends in bilateral trade and investment. Both sides acknowledged the progress under Stage IV of the PFMRP and highlighted the critical role of reforms in safeguarding macro-economic and social stability. 

Under the Global Gateway Investment Strategy, through which the EU promotes sustainable investments worldwide, the EU is scaling up cooperation with Cambodia in priority sectors including energy, water and education/skills. 

Both sides reiterated their commitment to accelerating reforms and deepening cooperation in the years ahead. They also discussed the launch of a new EU-Cambodia cooperation alongside France and Finland on tax reforms and public financial management.

By Chea Vannak