AKP Phnom Penh, July 10, 2026 -- The "Green Sprout" exhibition and the nationwide campaign to plant one million palm trees in 2026 is far more than an environmental initiative, said Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister H.E. Sok Chenda Sophea. 

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the Green Sprout Exhibition and the launch of the nationwide palm tree planting campaign, H.E. Sok Chenda Sophea said this event represents a long-term investment in Cambodia's future, national identity, and sustainable development.

The Deputy Prime Minister said the programme carries profound significance by encouraging Cambodians to move beyond expressing concern for nature and instead take concrete action through tree planting. By distributing free seedlings to the public, the initiative transforms environmental awareness into practical participation and fosters a culture of caring for forests and green spaces.

H.E. Sok Chenda Sophea highlighted the symbolic importance of the palm tree, noting that while it provides numerous economic and practical benefits for daily life, it also serves as one of Cambodia's strongest national symbols. Therefore, the campaign to plant one million palm trees is intended not only to expand the country's green cover but also to reinforce patriotism and strengthen Cambodian national identity for future generations.

According to H.E. Sok Chenda Sophea, planting trees is an enduring expression of hope for the future. Although those who plant trees today may never personally enjoy their shade or harvest their fruits, they do so for the benefit of future generations. He said Cambodia is not simply planting one million palm trees, but is collectively cultivating a "green vision" that demonstrates confidence in the nation's long-term future.

The Deputy Prime Minister stressed that environmental protection is not merely a scientific or technical issue, but a civilisational responsibility towards history, future generations, and Cambodia's Vision 2050. 

H.E. Sok Chenda Sophea called on all citizens to embrace five guiding principles—Care, Community, Commitment, Courage and Continuation—as the foundation for protecting nature and ensuring that environmental conservation becomes a lasting national movement.

H.E. Sok Chenda Sophea further underlined that the Green Sprout campaign aligns with the Royal Government's broader environmental strategy and Pentagonal Strategy by demonstrating that economic growth and environmental conservation are mutually reinforcing objectives. Cambodia's forests and natural resources, he said, should be regarded not only as heritage to be protected but also as strategic assets capable of creating sustainable tourism, green jobs, climate resilience and long-term prosperity.

By Heng Panha