PHNOM PENH: Cambodia and South Korea have launched the second phase of a village development programme aimed at accelerating rural infrastructure upgrades and strengthening community leadership across three northwestern provinces, as the two countries deepen cooperation on sustainable development and post-conflict recovery.
The Ministry of Rural Development and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) signed an agreement for the second round of the project in Battambang on Aug 5.
The initiative forms part of the broader Peace Village Project and will be implemented in Battambang, Banteay Meanchey and Pailin provinces.
The signing ceremony was attended by South Korean ambassador Kim Changyong, KOICA Cambodia country director Kim JunMo, rural development minister Chhay Rithisen and Battambang provincial governor Sok Lou, along with provincial officials and community representatives.
The second phase seeks to improve rural infrastructure while equipping local leaders with the skills and resources needed to drive their own communities’ long-term development, reflecting what both governments describe as a shared commitment to building sustainable peace through inclusive economic growth.
Speaking at the ceremony, ambassador Kim said South Korea’s own development experience had demonstrated that lasting peace depends not only on the absence of conflict but also on creating opportunities for local communities.
“Korea knows firsthand that true, lasting peace is not merely the absence of conflict; it is the presence of opportunity, stability and sustainable growth at the grassroots level,” he said.
“By investing in the heart of Cambodia’s rural communities, we are sowing the seeds of long-term peace and self-reliance,” he added.
The project is being implemented under the framework of the Cambodia-Republic of Korea Strategic Partnership, with both governments viewing rural development as a foundation for stronger communities and greater economic resilience.
Minister Rithisen expressed his appreciation for South Korea’s continued support, describing the partnership as an important contribution to Cambodia’s efforts to transform rural areas and improve living standards.
According to the ministry, South Korea’s assistance extends beyond financial support by helping strengthen local institutions and enabling communities to take greater ownership of their own development.
Governor Lou echoed that view, saying the programme empowers local leaders to shape development priorities that reflect the needs of their communities.
“This generous contribution serves as a powerful catalyst for local ownership, enabling community leaders to confidently drive their own development agendas,” he said.
The Village Development Project combines investment in physical infrastructure with capacity-building programmes for village leaders and residents.
Beyond improving roads and public facilities, it seeks to strengthen governance at the community level so development initiatives can continue after external assistance concludes.
KOICA noted that previous phases of the project have already produced measurable improvements in participating communities, including safer learning environments, better access to healthcare, expanded economic opportunities and stronger social cohesion.
Officials believe those experiences provide a practical model for Cambodia’s wider rural development agenda.
“The Phase 2 grants will continue to support village development activities through the ‘Building Peace Villages through Inclusive Community Development’ project by promoting rural community development; strengthening leadership; increasing participation and ownership; and enhancing capacities in dialogue, problem identification, needs assessment and prioritization for effective village development planning,” according to the rural development ministry.
“A total of 30 villages have been and are being implemented in the three target provinces — Battambang, Pailin and Banteay Meanchey — with the aim of advancing development in Cambodia’s northwestern provinces, a region once afflicted by conflict and landmines, and transforming it into a peaceful, sustainable and collectively prosperous area,” it added.
While Northwestern Cambodia has undergone significant transformation over the past two decades, many rural communities continue to face infrastructure gaps and limited access to public services, making sustained investment a key government priority.
South Korea has long been one of Cambodia’s major development partners through KOICA, with the latest agreement coming as the two nations prepare to mark the 30th anniversary of the re-establishment of diplomatic relations in 1997. - The Phnom Penh Times/ANN
