By Ek Tha
PHNOM PENH, 17May 2013 (PRU): The Indian Ambassador to Cambodia shared views with Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister His Excellency Dr. Sok An on bilateral cooperation in vocational training, English training and protection of cultural heritage.
India has been actively supporting a Cambodian vocational training centre in Kompong Cham province. New Delhi is also considering supporting the already established vocational training centre in Preah Vihear, news welcomed by the Deputy Prime Minister.
Both sides shared views on the establishment of vocational training centres where local people can come and learn skills in small and medium enterprises (SME) which they can use to run their own businesses.
“This is a good model in Cambodia”, said Dr. Sok An, who is also the Chairman of the National Training Board.
Dr. Sok An said that the government led by Prime Minister Samdech Hun Sen had built a vocational training centre in Preah Vihear where schools, vocational training centres and a local community of more than 1,000 villagers live in a harmony with nature.
The Ambassador also recalled Indian’s contribution to the rehabilitation of Ta Prohm temple. It is now looking to restore another temple of Preah Khan Kompong Svay in Siem Reap, the home of Angkor.
India also hopes to receive Cambodian trainees for English short courses.
Cambodia is to host the 37th session of the World Heritage Committee from 16 to 27 June in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, said Dr. Sok An, who is the Chairperson of the upcoming session.
The Deputy Prime Minister also said that Cambodia will display the two statues “Kneeling Pandavas” or “Kneeling Attendants”, which will be returned from the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, at the Peace Palace, where the World Heritage meeting will be held.
India also expects to provide Cambodia a 40,000 bottles of indelible ink for the election in July, said the Ambassador. End.