PHNOM PENH, Nov. 2, 2011 – Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Sok An and the U.S. Chargé d’Affaires on Wednesday
signed an agreement for $20.3 million in 2011 funding from the U.S. Agency for
International Development (USAID) to support Cambodia’s priorities in economic
growth, food security and climate change. USAID Mission Director Flynn Fuller
also signed the agreement.
Speaking after the signing at
the Office of the Council of Ministers, Dr. Sok An said that the assistance not
only demonstrates the unwavering commitment of the U.S. to Cambodia’s economic
growth but also reflects improved cooperation between the two countries.
“This fits well with our
needs—the needs for agricultural development and natural resources management
to ensure food security, improve rural livelihoods and sustain economic
growth”, said Dr. Sok An, who is also Minister in Charge of the Office of the
Council of Ministers.
The Deputy Prime Minister said
that Cambodia has achieved significant economic development under the wise
leadership of Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, Prime Minister of
Cambodia, and that is something to be proud of, especially given the legacy of
nearly 30 years of internal strife and destruction.
He recalled that Cambodia’s
economic growth was remarkably high until it was disrupted by the global
economic crisis.
The U.S. Chargé d’Affaires
a.i., Mr. Jeff Daigle, said after the signing that the United States is pleased
to continue supporting the Cambodian government’s efforts to improve the
business climate, both to attract investment from abroad and to ensure that
domestic firms reach their full competitive potential.
Mr. Daigle also highlighted
that USAID was celebrating its 50th anniversary, President John F.
Kennedy having signed an executive order to establish USAID on November 3,
1961. “President Kennedy had a vision of helping to create conditions in
nations like Cambodia where assistance will no longer be needed”, he said.
Mr. Daigle also expressed
pleasure with Cambodia’s cooperation and collaboration, especially from Dr. Sok
An as well as provincial and local government officials.
With the signing of the
agreement, U.S. development assistance to Cambodia for economic growth since
2008 totals $52.76 million, he said.