Vietnam has confirmed its support for Cambodia’s ambitious plan to build a canal connecting the Mekong River basin and the Cambodian coast. On the other hand, Vietnam is eager to work with others to mitigate potential negative consequences, according to the Vietnamese foreign ministry on Thursday, August 8.
On Monday, the Cambodian government broke ground on the Funan Techo Canal project worth US$1.7 billion. This canal proposes to divert a considerable amount of Cambodian cargo away from Vietnam, representing a significant improvement in regional infrastructure. Despite this, Vietnam remains committed to Cambodia’s sovereign decision to build the canal. “We support the project and respect the decision to build the canal,” said Doan Khac Viet, the Vietnamese foreign ministry’s spokesperson, at a regular media briefing.
Vietnam is keen to engage with Cambodia on research and impact assessments to develop effective measures for mitigating any negative consequences. While Cambodian authorities have continuously dismissed environmental concerns, conservationists and Vietnamese officials warn that the canal will worsen harm to the already vulnerable Mekong Delta, a vital rice-producing region.
As both countries manage this difficult undertaking, collaboration and thorough assessment will be critical to balancing economic gains and environmental protection.
