Published by the Cabinet of Samdech —————— MP of Kandal Prime Minister

Issue 61 http://www.cnv.org.kh February, 2003

23-25 February 2003 11-14th February 2003 Addressing the XIII Non-Aligned Movement Summit Addressing the Management of Large Rivers Symposium

… It is a great honor... to ad- changing capital of the King- dress the opening session of dom of . This is a the Second International Sym- global event of great impor- posium on the Management of tance in the fields of fisheries Large Rivers for Fisheries - and rivers management that "Sustaining Livelihoods and has not been held since 1985. Biodiversity in the New Mil- lennium". Cambodia is therefore very proud to host such an impor- On behalf of the Royal Gov- tant event of international co- ernment of Cambodia, and operation after the successful myself, I would like to extend conclusion of the first GMS my warmest welcome to all Summit, the ASEAN Summit, participants and especially ASEAN Plus Three and Plus those international visitors One Summits with China, On February 15, 2003, Samdech Hun Sen is warmly welcomed by who have come from every Japan and South Korea, people during the inauguration of Tachei Buddhist Pagoda, Svay continent and represent all ASEAN Plus India Summit, Chrum District, . major river systems in the ASEAN-South Africa Special It is a great honor and pleas- path in ensuring the recon- world to -the fast (Continued on page 5) ure... to address this 13th Sum- struction and development of 15 February 2003 [Unofficial Translation] mit of the Non-Aligned Move- the nations of the South. We Inaugurating a Buddhist Temple in Tachei Pagoda of ment. I bring you all the bear the grave responsibility Svay Rieng warmest greetings of His Maj- for soul-searching as we chart esty Norodom Sihanouk, the our common future. In this During the above event, Sam- Hok Lundy and Madame, in King of Cambodia, and the context, let us focus on the key dech Hun Sen made an ad-lib putting together their efforts good wishes of the people and essentials that shall set our address that covers issues of and resources making this the Royal Government of Movement on its rightful Buddhism development in wonderful achievement possi- Cambodia. His Majesty the course. We do not need big, Cambodia, achievements ble. I have been to many pago- King was one of the main ar- long drawn-out and resource- scored in Svay Rieng with the das for the inaugurations of chitects of the creation of the wasting conferences to com- assistance of the CPP working their temples, but none of Non-Aligned Movement, and plete the task before us. Nor team, and remarks on verbal them is as old as this one. he continues to be deeply in- do we need volumes of posi- attack by a parliamentarian. Most of them are between 200 terested in the Movement’s tion papers. We need only to and 100 years. But the Tachei vitality. trust our immense collective ... I have a great pleasure to pagoda is, according to histori- knowledge, and heed our ex- return today to the province of cal note, 303 years. It is classi- … Please allow me to share periences and the lessons of Svay Rieng after my presence fied as one of the oldest pago- with you some views on the past as well to understand here a few weeks ago in the das in the country... Having global developments and the the common interest of our district of Svay Teap. I also said so, despite destructive Non-Aligned Movement's role people now and in the future came here in 2000 to deliver campaign led by the genocide in the world order and affairs. in order to set the directions, flood relief to our people. I am (Continued on page 8) Finally, with your permission, action plans that we must very delightful as today we are taking time to gather together I will also provide an update jointly elaborate. In This Issue and I would like to take this on developments in Cambo- 1) XIII NAM Summit, KL — P.1 dia. From the outset, Cambodia opportunity to express my 2) Rivers Symposium — P.1 has been an active member of appreciation and deep thanks 3) Inaugurating Tachei Buddhist At this Summit, we meet to the Non-Aligned Movement. to the venerable head monk Temple — P. 1 4) Inaugurating Udom Kiri Bud- chart a common vision and (Continued on page 2) and others, including also HE dhist Temple — P. 7

Mailing Box: Cambodia New Vision (CNV), P.O. Box 158, Phnom Penh, Cambodia; e-mail: [email protected]; Tel: 855-23 219898; Fax: 855-23 360666/219869 February 2003 • Cambodia New Vision

(Continued from page 1) prosperity, cooperation and people. Stronger economic integration progress, achieved by our own has fostered more favorable Cambodia is committed to strong efforts and determined Indeed, we need to uphold our conditions for preventing and cementing our bonds with sacrifice. This is indeed a independence, sovereignty and solving the lingering strategic other member countries as uniquely historic, highly laud- territorial integrity and to pro- and geopolitical problems, yet together we strive to throw off able and noteworthy accom- tect our national culture. How- has raised new challenges in the shackles of economic plishment, showing that Cam- ever, we are also required to almost all segments of our backwardness and boldly as- bodia is truly capable of par- maintain good relationships society and among specific sert our right to be prosperous ticipation on an equal footing with neighboring countries, as demographic groups. and dignified nations. Today, in regional and world affairs. well as with all other countries at this podium, I once again Moreover, growing interna- in the region and the rest of the Governments across the world affirm our commitment to the tional confidence in Cambodia world. Thus we must also ex- have responded to these founding principles of the has reaped benefits through ert our utmost efforts to peace- changes by adopting strong Movement and reiterate our increased trade, investment fully resolve any outstanding measures for better govern- continuing belief in the valid- and tourist inflows. All these or emerging issues with our ance, peace and national sta- ity of the Movement’s princi- developments are crucial for neighboring countries without bility. The ongoing revolution ples! Cambodia supports the employment creation and in- recourse to force or violence. in information and communi- Movement’s continuing strug- come generation for Cambo- Especially, we need friendly cation technology has tran- gle to build a more humane dian workers, thus contribut- cooperation with our neigh- scended traditional barriers and equitable world order and ing to poverty reduction and boring ASEAN countries with and bridged great distances to promote the greater democ- improved welfare among our the view to mutual preserving between nations and people, ratization of international rela- people. independence, sovereignty, promoting the unprecedented tions. territorial integrity, political sharing and use of knowledge. Indeed, Cambodia is marching stability and the promotion of Such communication has al- A Regrettable Event resolutely into the new century rapid social and economic lowed our peoples to improve Over the past year, the people and new millennium with a development and poverty re- their skills and expertise in and Royal Government of vibrant peace, ample national duction. This is the official their difficult pursuit of a Cambodia, with great honor reconciliation and strength- stance of the Royal Govern- higher level of prosperity. Yet and pride, have hosted a large ened Democracy with intense ment, reflecting the aspirations we need many more people number of historic interna- hopes and expectations for a of our people. with advanced education to tional events. These events bright future. complete the transition to a include: the First Greater Me- NAM at the Crossroads knowledge-based economy. kong Sub-region (GMS) Sum- However, there are some dis- We are conscious that NAM is mit, the 8th ASEAN and re- cordant and destructive oppo- at the crossroads, faced with However, there is continuing lated Summits - including the sition quarters that are not new political realities. We uncertainty in the world at ASEAN Plus Three and Plus happy with such landmark have witnessed and have in large, with the winds of war One Summits, the ASEAN accomplishments. They con- fact participated in the many and crisis buffeting many na- Plus India Summit and the tinue to haunt us, and continu- dramatic changes in the tions. The fulfillment of the Special ASEAN-South Africa ously attempt to disrupt the NAM’s activities. Of crucial basic needs of all continues to Meeting. Just recently, Cam- nation’s peace and stability. A importance is how we are to be an uphill struggle as we bodia successfully hosted the regrettable event occurred in respond to the changed envi- grapple with the interlinked ASEAN Tourism Forum Phnom Penh on 29 January ronment, since it is clear that problems of population (ATF). Soon we will host 2003. It was caused by disin- we cannot adopt a one-suit-all growth, the digital divide, the other major meetings such as formation, propaganda and approach in our quest for sus- specters of disease – particu- the ASEAN Regional Forum incitement that led to unrest, tainable development. larly HIV/AIDS, terrorism and (ARF). racial hatred and even violence transnational crimes, the arms that endangered the lives and We all recognize that, with the race and nuclear proliferation With these events, the message property of both Cambodians impetus and influence of the and especially the worsening that the Royal Government of and foreign nationals in the forces of globalization and development disparities both Cambodia has sent to the rest Kingdom of Cambodia. Such regionalism, the world has across and within countries. of the world is that, first and a disturbance is contrary to the undergone tremendous and foremost, Cambodia has un- Royal Government’s policy of unexpectedly rapid transfor- Therefore, we must forcefully dergone a profound transfor- good neighborliness and our mation in recent decades. Si- and effectively respond to both mation from a region of uncer- vision and practice of promot- multaneously, a new wave of the challenges and opportuni- tainty, turmoil, war, civil strife, ing the culture of peace. More regionalism has gripped many ties facing our peoples. At the instability and backwardness importantly, this incident has parts of the world, spawning least we must fulfill the funda- to become an epicenter of seriously damaged the national an interlocking array of Free mental responsibility of secur- peace, safety and social order, interests of Cambodia and her Trade Area arrangements. (Continued on page 3)

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(Continued from page 2) cording to the special features terrorist collaboration. Moreover, poverty reduction is ing peace, security and stabil- of a religious sect or an ethnic not just a requirement of social ity and delivering the basic group. New Development Paradigm justice, an action of con- goods and services they re- Since our 12th Summit at Dur- science, but also an art of quire. And ideally, we must With regard to the elimination ban in 1998, we have sought pragmatic economic manage- establish the vision and long- of weapons of mass destruc- to push our development ment. Therefore, our efforts term program for the sustain- tion, we must intensify our agenda forward by focusing are geared towards ensuring able social and economic de- cooperation to prevent the on the core issues of develop- the macroeconomic conditions velopment of our countries proliferation of nuclear weap- ment, trade, finance, external for rapid growth while pro- and the world at large. ons. To this end, Cambodia debt and technology transfer. moting equitable distribution has joined with its fellow We firmly believe that the of the fruits of growth with a The Scourge of Terrorism ASEAN members and other improvement of the global focus on basic human needs. The world at large is actively partners in the establishment environment for development In short, our poverty reduction combating terrorism, which is of the Zone of Peace, Freedom through measures such as: strategy is based on three key the most outstanding and ur- and Neutrality in Southeast increased Official Develop- fundamentals: (i) long-term gent issue confronting us to- Asia (ZOPFAN) and the ment Assistance (ODA), pref- and high economic growth; (ii) day and spreading fast to re- Southeast Asia Nuclear erential tariffs on the exports equitable distribution of the gions hitherto not touched Weapon-Free Zone Treaty of developing countries, debt fruits of this growth through with its highly destructive (SEANWFZ). I think that this reduction and expanded tech- social development and good manifestations. Thus, there is a problem should be resolved nology transfer and measures governance; and (iii) sustain- need for urgent actions. No through peaceful means, to to bridge the digital divide will able management and use the country, no region and no ensure the stability of the frag- have tremendously favorable national natural resources. community can remain safe if ile peace and political and effects on the economies of terrorists continue their sur- economic stability in the many developing countries, In this context, I propose that prise strikes and activities. world. who are working hard in fight- our Movement must devise ing poverty. Therefore, we steps to achieve the eradication We all need to be united in Good governance demands must help shape the emerging of poverty within the next 12 countering and combating action to protect the security development paradigm and years, with specific bench- terrorism. We must take deter- and safety of the population at ensure that the core develop- marks and indicators for moni- mined steps to move debate large. Freedoms and rights of ment issues are negotiated on toring of progress to achieve from the forum of violence in the many should dominate the basis of common interest the goals of the Millennium the streets and baseless ban of over those of an individual or and benefit, shared responsi- Declaration. With genuine people's travels into the calm a few who tend to abuse such bility and genuine interde- sharing among the wealthy dignity of political exchange. rights for provocative propa- pendence. and the destitute, internation- Cambodians are only too well ganda, falsehood, nurturing ally, regionally and within aware of the scourge of terror- extremist views. These actions Of utmost priority is the eradi- countries, poverty eradication ism and the unquestionable undertaken under apparent cation of poverty. The gaps can be achievable. Already the need for peace as the founda- guise of free speech and politi- between the rich and poor, the industrialized countries or G-8 tion of progress. Prosperity cal activity ultimately provide mighty and meek, and the nations have foregone the past for all cannot be pursued in the a spawning ground for terror- haves and have-nots have wid- debts of the poorest nations. absence of peace and security. ists with catastrophic results in ened. There are half a billion This trend must be encour- Therefore we should all loss of lives and property as people in abject poverty even aged, particularly via assis- pledge here that we will not do we have witnessed in the past. as a few live in conspicuous tance that should largely be anything that could damage comfort. The poor, vulnerable through grants rather than fragile social fabrics. Indeed, Based on this philosophy, and oppressed suffer every- loans. Furthermore, we realize we must be jointly determined Cambodia is determined to where through neglect. We that the implementation of pro- to fight against the practice of protect the security and safety must rigorously implement poor policy agenda must be terrorist acts that endangers of our people at all costs. In policies to reduce poverty in linked to the preservation and people's lives and our society, the regional and international our respective countries. enhancement of our environ- regardless of the reasons for framework, Cambodia has ment and ecology for the the acts committed either in actively participated in the For the Royal Government of benefits of future generations. the name of a religion or on preparation and implementa- Cambodia, the war on poverty the aspiration of any nation. tion of agreements and decla- is not just a policy but a will The Royal Government recog- We need to focus on issues in rations to root out terrorism. and passion. In this regard, nizes that common efforts to our debates, not on personali- We call on the NAM to estab- poverty reduction defines and narrow the digital divide is key ties nor on groups. In this lish a cohesive framework for drives the substance, the con- to poverty reduction, improve- sense, we regret that some fighting terrorism through tent, the heart and soul of our ment in the living standards of quarters define terrorism ac- intensified international anti- entire strategy of Government. (Continued on page 4)

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(Continued from page 3) any nation’s history in less government of the second with per capita income leaping the population and strengthen- than a quarter-century before. term, led by myself as Prime forward. All macro-economic ing competitiveness of each For 12 years following the Minister, was born out of indicators have been robust nation in the quest for sustain- liberation from the genocidal strong, commonly held princi- and very encouraging from able development in the era of regime, Cambodia was subject ples and clear vision for the one year to another, although globalization. The develop- to an international blockade, country’s future, which are we have successively suffered ment of telecommunication due to the geo-political fac- endorsed by the two major from natural calamities in the infrastructure, especially of tionalism, which is now political parties in Cambodia. midst of unfavorable political information technology is cru- widely acknowledged as mis- and economic conditions in cial for narrowing the digital guided. Yet even in those Soon after the 1998 elections, the region and the world. Yes, divide. Cambodia is prepared years of isolation, we strived we worked out a new political Cambodia today is fully trans- for the liberalization of this tirelessly to move the country platform – the “Triangular formed and prosperous be- sector by strengthening our forward by building up, block Strategy” which has since un- yond recognition when com- regulatory capacity while by block, the foundations for derpinned our domestic and pared to its skeletal existence opening up to fair competition. development. Indeed, our foreign policy. The first side in 1979! This approach will ensure that goals at that time were to raise of this strategic triangle is state interests are protected our nation, our people's living building peace, restoring sta- Based on these achievements, while the equal treatment for standards and economic insti- bility and maintaining security Cambodia looks forward with all telecommunication players tutions literally from the ashes for the nation. The second side strong confidence. Our strate- or competitors is maintained. at all costs. is Cambodia's rapid integration gies are designed to ensure Moreover, it is the govern- into the international commu- that the first decade of the new ment's priority to encourage With clear vision for rigor- nity, especially into the comity millennium will be a period of the participation of the private ously achieving, from the out- of regional nations, and nor- peace, stability, growth, pov- sector in the development of set, the reconciliation among malization of our relationships erty reduction, social progress information and communica- our people and steady prog- with the international financial and prosperity for Cambodi- tion technology by providing ress, we advanced, step by institutions. Finally, the third ans from all walks of life. Our adequate incentives to the step, firstly by rehabilitating side is to promote develop- ambition is to create a socially companies to import expertise our agricultural base, the very ment based on the favorable connected, educationally ad- and state-of-the-art technol- foundation for our national conditions created by the im- vanced and culturally vibrant ogy. survival, and then steady prog- plementation of key reform Cambodian society. Our vi- ress through the stages of mar- programs: demobilization, sion is to have democracy Cambodia’s Drive for Devel- ket liberalization. public administration reform, deeply rooted in Cambodian opment strengthening of the judiciary society by strengthening the With full determination, the In 1991, the Paris Peace Ac- and legal system, and eco- rule of law and practicing Kingdom of Cambodia has cord brought about reconcilia- nomic reforms including fiscal good governance and promot- stepped forward to engage tion among all the feuding and banking reforms, land and ing respect for rights and dig- with other partners in such a political parties in Cambodia. fisheries reform and stringent nity of all Cambodians. rapid transformation, firmly A new, modern chapter of measures to crack down on moving beyond the shadows history was begun with the illegal logging and promote Cambodia as Full Partner in of our recent history. The establishment of a new coali- environmental protection. the World Community Cambodian people have tion Royal Government of Isolation is no longer an option stepped resolutely into the 21st national reconciliation follow- Through the implementation for any nation. Our fates and century, strengthened by vi- ing the UN-administered gen- of the Triangle Strategy, to- destinies are intertwined, and brant peace, healthy national eral elections of 1993. How- day's Cambodia is firmly our economies cannot grow reconciliation and a vigorous ever, we still continued to face rooted in Democracy where without exchange and inter- democracy that respects hu- insurgency by the Khmer the people at large exercise dependency. We are commit- man rights and dignity, fosters Rouge. Differences also lin- their choice of leadership in a ted to act together and work free speech and market-based, gered among the coalition free, fair and open manner tirelessly to achieve the Mil- sustainable socio-economic partners. But we totally fin- through peaceful, regular elec- lennium Development Goals, development. In this regard, ished with these two negative tions. There is complete free- as well as our common objec- please allow me to highlight elements, following the gen- dom of speech, expression and tives agreed upon by at the some episodes of Cambodia’s eral elections that Cambodians movement in Cambodia. In major international confer- recent history for your appro- conducted by themselves and fact, such freedom is at times ences and summits, particu- priate perspective and consid- internationally recognized as abused by people intent on larly in Doha, Monterrey and eration. free and fair. People described creating dissent and discord in Johannesburg. it in 1998 in such glowing society where people now Cambodia has emerged from terms as the "miracle on the enjoy peace and stability. The The Monterrey Consensus, the most traumatic tragedy in Mekong". Indeed, the coalition economy is growing rapidly, (Continued on page 5)

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(Continued from page 4) potentials including coopera- (Continued from page 1) beneficial cooperation. They tion in tourism. At the same Meeting in early November have done this through jointly Doha Ministerial Agreement time, closer cooperation with last year and the recent success investigating ways of improv- and the Johannesburg Imple- the North should be sought on of the ASEAN Tourism Fo- ing our understanding of this mentation Plan, together with the basis of sharing, mutual rum (ATF). Through all these mighty, but then less known the Millennium Declaration, respect for sovereignty, equal- important meetings, the Royal river, and planning for har- provide a comprehensive set ity and mutual benefit. Government of Cambodia has nessing its potentials. These of recommendations for a new made its best effort in moving efforts are driven by knowl- partnership for sustainable Looking Forward Cambodia forward and edge of the abundant resources development. With mutual Continuing peace, now deeply showed the world that Cambo- within the Basin, the expecta- respect and caring collabora- rooted in Cambodia, has built dia has transformed from a tion of its people for improved tion, we will achieve the up public confidence in re- region of uncertainty, civil livelihoods, and the need for promise of shared peace and forms and political stability, strife, backwardness and insta- access to natural resources so prosperity. We acknowledge laying a solid path for Cambo- bility to become a country of that they can feed their fami- that international trade can dia’s drive towards sustain- peace, prosperity, cooperation lies and provide livelihoods play a significant role in the able, long-term economic and development, strength- for themselves. promotion of economic devel- growth. The Royal Govern- ened by its growing self- opment and poverty reduction. ment is resolved and strongly confidence. In this spirit, we The outcomes of your efforts We trust that the forthcoming committed to systematically would like to reiterate once and deliberations at this sym- negotiations mandated at Doha enhance Democracy in the again that we will never fail posium will be used to help will enable the full integration nation. Indeed, we are confi- and, however, will work much make better decisions on fish- of developing countries into dent that the forthcoming 2003 harder to promote the cellular eries management around the the WTO multilateral trading general elections will further of peace in Cambodian soci- world. This knowledge and system. In this process, the confirm the Royal Govern- ety, and we have also deter- insight will certainly be of interests of the Non-Aligned ment’s irrevocable determina- mined that by the end of the great value to the Mekong Countries and other develop- tion to promote Democracy first decade of the 21st Cen- River -one of the world great- ing countries must be seriously and respect for people' rights tury, we will turn Cambodia est rivers -that supports one of considered. Regional integra- and dignity, keep the peace, into an important part of the the most productive and di- tion is one of the important further consolidate political Greater Mekong Sub-region verse freshwater eco-systems pillars of the Royal Govern- stability and generate eco- and become a pole of eco- in the world. For centuries, the ment’s strategy to maintain nomic growth toward poverty nomic growth and sustainable river has played an important peace and strengthen security reduction. So now, as the new development. role in the economic and cul- in Cambodia and the region. millennium unfolds, Cambo- tural life of the people living in Proactive, equal participation dia is once again a unified In this regard, I highly appreci- and depending on the rich in regional and world affairs nation. The Cambodian people ate the efforts of the Cambo- natural assets of the Mekong requires that Cambodia take look to the future with great dian Ministry of Agriculture, Basin. Covering over 86% of further steps in strengthening optimism, borne out of our Forestry and Fishery, and the the Cambodian territory, the its institutions and human re- own achievements through the Mekong River Commission Mekong River Basin plays a sources. These links will fur- implementation of govern- for jointly preparing and or- very important role in the so- ther our economic advance, ment's sound economic and ganizing this very important cio-economic and cultural life based on expanded and diver- social policies. Our govern- international event dedicating of this country. This sympo- sified trade and improved pro- ment has laid the foundations to sustaining livelihoods and sium will also help to raise ductivity and competitiveness. for a genuine nationhood, built biodiversity in this millen- public awareness about the on the aspirations of our peo- nium. This topic itself is at the ecological, social, cultural, and Cambodia's experiences show ple to improve their lives, to heart of the current policy of economic importance of large that the granting of GSP terms live in harmony and to be the Royal Government of rivers and the fisheries they for the exports of developing common stakeholders in their Cambodia for improving the support. countries will promote their destiny... We must consider livelihood of its people, and exports to the more developed key steps to establish a new sustainable development. Improving the management of countries and attract foreign world order that will safely natural resources is a key issue direct investment. This will govern this fragile planet In the Lower Mekong River for people all over the world, help narrow development gaps through the next thousand Basin, the Mekong River and the Mekong region, and between the developing and years...I solemnly declare that Commission, and its predeces- Cambodia are no exception. the developed world. Indeed, Cambodia stands ready to join sors, namely the international Our Mekong basin is uniquely developing countries should hands with you all in this Mekong Committee and In- blessed, with amazing wealth be pro-active in enhancing global effort.■ terim Mekong Committee, and diversity in history, cul- South-South cooperation by have played a remarkable role ture, geography, flora and utilizing all internal growth in turning potential conflict (Continued on page 6) into a potential for mutually

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(Continued from page 5) sents huge potential for the This symposium will contrib- ing the famous river fishing socio- economic development ute to the ongoing debate in industry and causing wide- fauna. I learn that the sympo- of Cambodia and other Me- our country, as in others, on spread flooding; and eventu- sium organizers have also ar- kong countries. how best to use and develop ally the home of endangered ranged optional tours to Ang- the resources of our nation fish would be destroyed. The kor and other fishery trips for Sustainable and equitable today while safeguarding the dry of the Tonle Sap, believe you. From those visits, I do management of this important right of future generations to me, will not just affect Cam- hope you will gain more first natural resource constitutes an enjoy them tomorrow. Allow bodia but the whole region. A hand knowledge of the com- important part in the Royal me to take a few minutes to study to look at the down- plex hydrological, ecological, Cambodian Government's brief you on the Royal govern- stream impacts is urgently social and cultural conditions Policies. In late 2000, I initi- ment of Cambodia's decisive needed for the sustainability of of this Mekong River and its ated a bold plan to ensure efforts to ensure proper man- resources management in the populations. Back in history, proper management of the agement of this invaluable Mekong. there were great civilizations fishery sector, by ensuring natural asset -fishery. Our top flourishing along the Mekong greater levels of access to this priority in ensuring environ- All these concerns urgently River. The glorious Angkor resource by the poor through mental cooperation within the require our unified attention. civilization is vivid evidence the development of various region is the management of The efforts of all agencies indicating crucial role of the community- based fisheries, the Mekong River. concerned with the develop- large river in the development co-management, and reallocat- ment of the Mekong River of human environments. Zhou ing and reducing the commer- As riparian nations, our histo- Basin need to be well- Daguan, a Chinese envoy and cial fishing lots. Capacity and ries and livelihoods are linked coordinated and strengthened. historian who lived at Angkor institutional building in this to the ebb and flow of the Me- To that end the Mekong River in the late 13th Century, de- sector is also high on our kong. We may suffer from the Commission is playing a very scribed the Angkor Empire, agenda. Greater efforts have Mekong's abnormal floods, yet important role. For the sake of that dominated most of the been made in developing more the rich soil it distributes and our common futures, we must present day mainland South- appropriate fishery legislation the fish it nurtures sustain us. implement a Mekong manage- east Asia from 800 to 1430 and regulation. The first Inland Because of our common de- ment strategy that ensures AD, as a civilization that flour- Fishery Research and Devel- pendence on its riches, the sustainability. At the same ished on the success of its wa- opment Institute set-up with Mekong River is now under time, the work of the Mekong ter and related resources' man- the assistance of the Danish increasing pressure. We see River Commission and the agement. Many spectacular Government through MRC the signs of such stress in ero- GMS program should be a carvings on the walls of many Fisheries Programme is ready sion, siltation and changes in synergy for the sustainable ruined temples of Angkor bear for opening. I hope that Insti- water currents. Also observed development of the Mekong witness to the richness of fish- tute will assist in developing a has been some reduction in given that the management of ery resources and their impor- new generation of fishery offi- fishery resources, impedi- the Mekong River, including tance to people's daily liveli- cers and improving informa- ments to river transportation fisheries are of highest priority hood. tion and knowledge sharing. and exceptional flooding. within the GMS strategic framework. In present day Cambodia, the The Royal Government of Coming to this point, may I Tonle Sap Great Lake, Me- Cambodia is actively pursuing draw participants' attention to It is critical that we raise the kong River and flood plains, policies for poverty reduction a vital issue regarding the flow level of understanding of river are still endowed with huge for its people at present, most regime of the Mekong River. resources and how to manage fisheries. There are more than of whom are living with and Given that the change of flow them. The symposium will one hundred different fish relying on the rich resources of regime is a critical factor in the help people from all major species, indispensable to the the Mekong River Basin. We annual flood levels that sustain river systems to learn from food security, income and are doing this through sustain- the region's fisheries, tradi- each other, including from employment of the people of able development of water and tional livelihoods and biodi- people working in fisheries in the Basin. For Cambodian its related natural resources. versity, the Upstream coun- more developed rivers. We people, fish is a most impor- Hence, the sustainable devel- tries' projects in the Mekong can learn from their experi- tant resource for protein and opment of natural resources is River, namely the continued ences, their successes and their calcium in the diet, a key fac- a key element of the strategy dam constructions and com- mistakes. In Cambodia, as in tor in the growth of young of the Royal Government of mercial navigation plan, have other less developed countries, children. MRC's recent studies Cambodia and we place great become a major concern for we put a great focus on build- of fish consumption in the emphasis on consultations the downstream countries in- ing the capacity of our people. region show that each Cambo- between government, civil cluding Cambodia. The possi- Symposia such as these enable dian consumes an average of society organizations, and ble impacts for Cambodia that our people to gather new 47 kilograms annually. The other interested parties over many have foreseen are: The knowledge and experience that Mekong fish resource repre- the management of resources. Tonle Sap could dry up, end- (Continued on page 7)

Page 6 February 2003 • Cambodia New Vision

(Continued from page 6) 13th February 2003 [Unofficial Translation] Inaugurating a Buddhist Temple in Udom Kiri Pagoda, Kong Pisey of Kompong Speu is very valuable to the devel- opment of Cambodia. Also, “... I am glad that I have a all. I wish to solemnly declare 8) Demand of development Cambodia has one of the chance to return to the com- that if I were to stay on as pace and the lack of infra- world's most productive fish- mune of Snam Kropeu, Kong- Prime Minister I would con- structure. Our development tinue with my policy of impos- pace is gaining momentum, its eries in the Tonle Sap and we pisey district of Kompong ing no tax on farmland... But size is getting larger and we believe that people from other Speu once again – a land tax will be imposed on land in have infrastructure to be im- regions can learn valuable where I name in one of my cities when they are purchased proved to cope with. Take for lessons from the experiences song "the heritage of my son," and left with no action. instance our people are lack- we have had in managing our in which US$ 10,000 and US$ 3) Exports and Imports. Our ing of land but this could not fishery. Before I conclude I 5,000 were donated from my son's account for the construc- country exported in 2000 a be fulfilled because we have would like to take this oppor- sum of US$ 1 billion. But this no road access to new land tunity to thank once again the tions of the Buddhist Temple of the Salproeuk Pagoda and amount is not recoverable to areas... Cambodian Department of our large imports. This is what Fisheries, Ministry of Agricul- the flooring of the pagoda of Svay Ken, plus a school build- we call the external trade defi- ... In the last three years for ture, Forestry and Fisheries, cit. instance a large amount of and the Mekong River Com- ing... Just now HE Hem Khan handed me a piece of proverb 4) Currency and goods. We money has been invested in mission for convening this have done a great job in the the capital city of Phnom symposium. in poetry that was given to him by one of our people here and last four or five years. We Penh... As I am talking about have retained the purchasing the Phnom Penh, maybe I The agenda of this symposium I read: "Mistakes belong to those who are active, and not power of the Riel currency. should say a few things as is an ambitious one: to bring 5) Salary and the living stan- there have been extreme and together and share the latest to those who are inactive. Those who are active have got dard of the Government offi- inappropriate comments on the cutting edge research on the cials, the armed forces. For a change of position of the Gov- status and management of things done, but they never enter in the mind of those who stable living condition, there ernor of Phnom Penh. It is a large rivers, thereby contribut- needs to have a reasonably sit on the fence." I find it true normal working procedure of ing to the sustainable manage- high salary. The Government, because take my case for in- a Government. If I felt neces- ment of these critical natural despites all the difficulties I stance no matter how much I sary, heads of police or mili- resources. However, I have mentioned earlier in relation have done for the sake of our tary would also be changed. great faith that with the collec- to imposing no tax on farm- country and people, a number This is the power invested in tive expertise of the world's land, will try to roll on. of ill-thought persons find my the Prime Minister. The Prime leading fisheries and rivers 6) Growth of labour force and devotion and action irrelevant. Minister could assign as well specialists, this symposium demand for jobs. People that as remove someone from a will be a great success. So we should not be con- turn 18 years old have grown cerned with their reactions but position... There have been for in numbers, and many more instance comments that HE To follow the above com- to continue to do what we are born everyday. We have to think is right step by step... We Chea Sophara is a potential ments that I have made, I have attract foreign investments so candidate (for the post of have so many problems that as to create jobs for our peo- the honor to declare the Sec- Prime Minister). I know that need to be resolved but by ple and to increase exports. ond International Symposium HE Governor never has the prioritizing them we have 7) Demand for development on the Management of Large idea of challenging me in this eight imbalances to redress. and human resource training. Rivers for Fisheries open from post or HE in the As we all know that this world now on. May I extend to you post of Interior as well. But if 1) Demand and supply. As is in the stage of intellectual all my best wishes for an ex- he were to wish so, I have to demand goes greater our ca- and knowledge economy. The cellent outcome in your delib- make it clear today as well that erations and I also hope you pacity to supply is limited. We whole world has gone into have to mobilize our possibil- it is not his time yet because will have a good time and digitalization so the need for ity to resolve food, water, edu- we have more people in the sweet memory during your human resource training is in cation, clothing, residence, line – HE Sar Kheng, HE Say safe stay in Cambodia. I sin- high demand. We currently transport means as the main Chhum... I told HE Chea cerely thank all of you for have up to 3,000 foreign ex- priority. Sophara that "travelling on a your attention.■ perts working in Cambodia in 2) Income and expense of the long distance, some breaks are jobs and positions that the national budget. If we were to local human resources could necessary"... ■ overspend while we would not provide. That is why it is have small income it would very important to absorb chil- damage our macroeconomic dren of schooling age into stability. To increase income education and gender equity by taxing on land of our poor should be taken into practice. farmers I would not do that at

Page 7 February 2003 • Cambodia New Vision

(Continued from page 1) this occasion to thank the from the Government). When away on ground that they are regime of Pol Pot during (CPP) working group led by I did not do as they said, they lower Government officials. which period no religion, no HE Men Sam An, together opened attacks on me. I used What does representative monk, and no custom and tra- with some parliamentarians, to repeat a Cambodian saying mean? I would send anyone I dition were allowed and prac- for the efforts they made to that goes "don't be angry once think appropriate as my repre- tised, Buddhism has deeply rescue our people in combat- you accept to play a game, or sentative. So I wish to remind rooted in our country. Tachei ing hardships that were affect- you do not play at all." I was the person of a reversal effect. (or grandpa named Chei) had ing them in 2000 and 2001. I attacked for so long and when ... I have got a few political made a significant contribution have also listened to HE Gov- I return a few words, The things explained and this is for the Buddhism as he had ernor's report in which he cited Cambodia Daily published an just a message. What I wish to provided this plot of land for various canals, big and small, article of the person's over- reiterate is that we have to be the construction of the pagoda. rural roads and other achieve- reaction. Let me warn again frank and faithful to one an- After 1979, the pagoda was ments being realized – with that the higher you climb, the other so that our country will rebuilt in a slow pace and to- helps of donors or generous greater pain you have from prosper in peace. Take for day we have this wonderful people. Samdech Chea Sim, falling. Let me tell you that instance because we all are temple in sight. The remaining Samdech Heng Samrin and there have been so many files, frank and faithful with one parts to be finished, I think we HE Sar Kheng are also provid- in addition to this issue of another we could mobilize all will share our resources ing assistance to their areas. I "Neak Neang" (instead of efforts and resources to build and efforts to complete this am glad that 150 tons of rice, princess). As I used the term such a wonderful temple. Buddhist place. and I have just provided an- neak neang (or lady) is not at other 150 tons, were being all a nuisance but rather a po- Samdech Hun Sen in that oc- ... I am glad today to have met made use in realizing some of lite term for the provocation casion offered to asphalt 50% HE Nhek Huon, who used to those achievements and tack- one has caused (upon me.) I of the requested road from the be with me in times of hard- ling the food shortage issue said already whatever we do Ta Oeum Bridge to the Com- ship especially we were im- here. Not far from here I do- together we have to be faithful mune of Samraong, and the prisoned for twenty two days nated the O Smach Bridge, Ta with each other, as for if I remaining part should be as- (in ) together when Yeap Bridge, Romeas Hek have anything to tell I would phalted by end of 2003 or in we crossed the border (into Bridge and Toeuk Vil get it all out of my stomach. 2004, to provide the Tachei Vietnam) to carry out struggle Bridge... Everywhere in our Let me warn that one may lose pagoda Riel 66 million and (against the country, no matter where we support when s/he behaves US$ 16,370 to cover the re- regime). I wish also to recall are, we all are listening to the well only before everyone's maining cost of finishing the that HE Uk Rabun, who cur- Buddhist preaching and music eyes, but stabbing from the constructions and to build rently is the Secretary of State in place of armed conflicts. I back at the same time. Our three school buildings with six for Economy and Finance, am glad to have heard from people could not give us trust classrooms each. Samdech was a teacher himself in the the report of HE Governor that anymore... What I have said is also offered to two school Tachei School when the coup 94% of eligible voters have in fact not an advice to anyone buildings and a sewing train- on March 18, 1070 broke out. already registered and grateful at all but they may have to ing building to be equipped He then later became a profes- to the National Election Com- think about it. When I saw the with 50 sewing machines and sor in the College of Tep Pro- mittee for the decision to ex- reaction in The Cambodia two computers and one printer nom. Svay Rieng suffered tend some more time for com- Daily, I said to HE Uk Rabun to the college of Hun Sen-Svay serious destruction because it munes that have yet to have that the fish is enjoying the Chrum. A Bailey bridge of 72 was a twin area of region 23 their eligible voters registered. bait. I have ordered this morn- meters was also offered to be and 24 of Prey Veng. After the Taking this opportunity may I ing to copy the tape of Febru- built in place of Tahao Bridge head of region 23 and 24 were appeal to all eligible voters, ary-14 Cabinet Meeting and across the Vaico River, and arrested, the two areas were especially those who just turn also to file relevant documents the flooring of the Hun Sen- combined as twin administra- eligible to register so that they from last year onwards. I was Vaico Bridge to be replaced. tion. Because the local people could cast their votes, as doing accused of threatening to send Samdech Hun Sen approves suffered a great deal, so they so is to fulfil one's obligation the person to Prey Sar prison, the study for the renovation of turned out to be the most re- and to get register one's iden- while the said person had gone a rural road of 16 Kilometres bellious. In was for this reason tity clearly. It is true that the oneself to the prison to see and and a Bailey bridge of 120 that we have so many heads of process is time consuming and to interview the prisoners. metres for the people in the police and military who are complicated, but it is a normal When I propose to send repre- district of Svay Chrum, pro- natives of Svay Rieng. They procedure to get this imple- sentatives of the Royal Gov- vides 72 tons of rice for the came from here to meet me on mented... I wish to take note ernment to the National As- renovation of three roads in the other side, and we came that in politics, sometimes it is sembly (in response for call the commune of Kompong back and liberated Svay Rieng one's internal conflict, but it for an explanation on what Chamlong...■ on January 4 together with was brought to me to help was happening on the January- some others... I wish to take remove (this or that officials 29 incident), they turn them

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