Prime Minister Hun Manet announced that Cambodia is set to commence construction on the controversial Funan Techo Canal, a project backed by China, in August. The canal, with an estimated cost of US$1.7 billion, aims to link the capital city of Phnom Penh to the sea.

However, neighbouring Vietnam has expressed concerns over the project, fearing that it could potentially be utilised by Chinese warships. Additionally, there are apprehensions that the canal might reduce Cambodia's reliance on Vietnamese ports.

Environmentalists have raised concerns over the potential impact of the 180km Funan Techo Canal on the Mekong River, which is renowned for its biodiversity and is among the world's most biodiverse rivers. They fear that the canal's construction could lead to a reduction in water flow to the Mekong, exacerbating environmental challenges in the region.

Prime Minister Hun Sen's son, Hun Manet, who is a key figure in Cambodian politics, revealed that the construction of the Funan Techo Canal would primarily be financed by Cambodian funds. Additionally, discussions are underway with a Chinese company regarding further investment in the project.

During a speech, Hun Manet stressed the urgency of the project, stating that waiting for external parties was no longer feasible. He emphasised the need for swift action, indicating the government's determination to proceed with the canal's construction without delay.

Opposition figurehead Sam Rainsy, currently residing in exile, has voiced concerns over the canal project, alleging that it primarily serves China's interests. The waterway forms part of Beijing's extensive Belt and Road Initiative, a vast infrastructure project spanning across Asia. Despite these assertions, Prime Minister Hun Manet has reiterated that the canal project is solely intended to benefit Cambodia.

Hun Manet emphasised that the canal's construction is within Cambodian territory and will exclusively serve the interests of the Cambodian people. He affirmed plans for a groundbreaking ceremony scheduled for August, signalling the government's commitment to proceeding with the project.

The proposed canal, measuring 100 metres wide and 5.4 metres deep, aims to connect the capital city of Phnom Penh with Cambodian ports situated on the Gulf of Thailand. This strategic waterway is envisioned to enhance Cambodia's connectivity and maritime trade capabilities.

Additionally, Cambodia and China recently concluded their largest annual military exercises, which involved the participation of several Chinese warships and hundreds of Chinese military personnel.

In December, two Chinese warships embarked on their inaugural visit to a Cambodian naval base, sparking concerns from the United States regarding the potential augmentation of China's influence in the Gulf of Thailand.

Cambodian officials have consistently refuted claims suggesting the utilisation of the base, situated near the port city of Sihanoukville, by any foreign entity.

US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin is scheduled to visit Cambodia on Tuesday, indicating heightened diplomatic engagement amid regional geopolitical dynamics.

Image source: AP News