Cambodia, UNDP pledge long-term trade and economic cooperation

Cambodia, UNDP pledge long-term trade and economic cooperation

UNDP values the partnership with Cambodia, which has grown stronger and more effective over the years. The ambition reflected in the Pentagonal Strategy is a promising signal for inclusive and sustainable growth.

Deputy Prime Minister Vongsey Vissoth, Minister in charge of the Office of the Council of Ministers, on Tuesday received a courtesy call from Alissar Chaker, outgoing UNDP Representative in Cambodia, reaffirming the strong partnership between the United Nations Development Programme and the Royal Government of Cambodia.

The meeting marked the conclusion of Chaker’s diplomatic mission in the Kingdom. Discussions focused on the evolving development landscape, including the alignment between Cambodia’s National Strategic Development Plan (NSDP) and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Both sides reviewed ongoing cooperation and shared aspirations for future engagement in key policy areas.

Vissoth thanked Chaker for her commitment to Cambodia’s development and acknowledged UNDP’s role in supporting priority initiatives, especially those related to poverty reduction, social protection, environmental conservation, and institutional reform.

He emphasised that in the face of global uncertainties, Cambodia remains committed to strengthening its economic foundations through investment in human capital, technology, and productivity—pillars central to the Pentagonal Strategy Phase 1 under the leadership of Prime Minister Hun Manet.

“Cambodia’s economic future depends on how well we adapt to shifting global realities. That includes building resilient institutions, embracing digital transformation, and creating a knowledge-based economy,” said Vissoth.

Chaker praised the Cambodian government’s strategic vision and the progress achieved in recent years. She highlighted the importance of addressing the root causes of inequality and development gaps, and expressed confidence in Cambodia’s ability to implement its long-term goals.

“UNDP values this partnership with Cambodia, which has grown stronger and more effective over the years. The ambition reflected in the Pentagonal Strategy is a promising signal for inclusive and sustainable growth,” Chaker stated.

The meeting concluded with both parties reaffirming their shared commitment to development cooperation that responds to both domestic needs and global challenges.

It is worth noting that UNDP has maintained a long-standing presence in Cambodia, dating back more than five decades. Its operations began in 1958 and continued until 1975, resuming in a limited capacity in 1980 to support emergency relief efforts. In 1994, UNDP formally established its office in Phnom Penh following the signing of the Standard Basic Assistance Agreement (SBAA).

Currently, UNDP is implementing its new Country Programme Document (CPD) for the period 2024–2028. The programme is closely aligned with Cambodia’s national development agenda, particularly the long-term Vision 2050, the Pentagonal Strategy Phase I (2024–2028), and the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF).

The formulation of the CPD involved a rigorous analytical process, including futures analysis and strategic foresight exercises. These were conducted in consultation with key stakeholders across the government, civil society, the private sector, youth groups, development partners, and United Nations agencies. A human rights-based approach has been embedded in the programme’s design and underpins its theory of change, which will continue to be reviewed and refined throughout the implementation phase.

At its core, the new programme aims to harness UNDP’s technical expertise and convening power to mobilise domestic, regional, and international networks and resources. It also seeks to advocate for and broker innovative knowledge solutions to support Cambodia’s graduation from Least Developed Country status and accelerate progress towards SDGs.

As the United Nations’ development network, UNDP plays a vital role in connecting governments, the private sector, to the knowledge, experience, and resources needed to drive change.

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