The Embassy of India in Phnom Penh celebrated Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Day at Raffles Hotel Le Royal.
To mark the occasion, H.E. Dr. Devyani Khobragade, Ambassador of India, hosted a reception. H.E. Mr. PAUL Pidou, Secretary of State, Ministry of Civil Service, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. The reception was attended by more than 120 prominent ITEC alumni from various ministries in Cambodia, including H.E. Sry Thamarong, Senior Minister, H.E. Dr. Sao Chivoan, Secretary of State and President of CIAA, H.E. Dr. Khy Sovanratana, Secretary of State, MoFA and IC, H.E. Chan Sorey, Secretary of State, MoWA and various other dignitaries and senior government officials.
According to the embassy, addressing the event, H.E. Dr. Devyani Khobragade, Ambassador of India, said that Indian foreign policy is based on its philosophy in ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ – which means the world is a family, and on this path India shares its knowledge and skills with the world. ITEC is a shining examp
le of the implementation of this ancient Indian philosophy. it has been India’s endeavour even immediately after its independence to share its capacity with partner countries in the developing world and that also on the priorities of the partner countries.
Since 1981, more than 2,720 Cambodian nationals working in various ministries, departments, autonomous bodies such as National Bank of Cambodia, Phnom Penh Water Supply Authority, Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority, Police Academy of Cambodia, among others have benefited from training programmes in the respective fields of their work.
During 2021-2022, more than 350 and in 2022-2023 more than 200 Cambodian nationals availed these trainings under ITEC in both virtual and physical formats and in 2023-2024, more than 270 officials also imparted the training programmes especially on ‘Public Policy and Governance for Cambodian civil servants. Current financial year 2024-2024, 300 slots have been allotted to Cambodia.
H.E. Ambassador added t
hat in view of the high appreciation by the Royal Government of Cambodia of ITEC for its role in capacity building and human resource development the Embassy of India in Phnom Penh has also organised customised courses as per the needs of various ministries of the Royal Government of Cambodia. 35 customised courses have already been held with 15 groups each consisting of 15-20 and 40 individuals traveling to India to attend them. Recent groups visiting India included 40 officials from Ministry of Justice and total 160 officials imparted the course on Public Policy and Governance from different ministries such as Ministry Civil Service, Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports, Ministry of Inspection, Ministry of Cults and Religious Affairs, Ministry of Post and Telecommunications and Royal Academy of Cambodia and Ministry of Women’s Affairs.
H.E. Mr. PAUL Pidou, Secretary of State, Ministry of Civil Service, in his address said, Cambodia and India have very close cultural linkages. Khmer language, our nationa
l religion – Buddhism, and many aspects of our traditions find their roots to India. The ITEC programmes have not only helped our capacity building and socio-economic development, but also strengthened the spirit of solidarity and friendship between the people of the two countries, Cambodia and India.
H.E. Dr. Chankoulika Bo, Under Secretary of State, Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport, shared the experience during her time in India. She said that the training under ITEC programme has better equipped her with invaluable skills and knowledge essential for her professional responsibilities. The training provided practical tools that she can apply directly to enhance administrative processes. In addition to her training, she had the opportunity to visit the picturesque town of Mussoorie. Surrounded by the majestic Himalayas, she experienced the rich culture and stunning scenery that India has to offer.
Source: Agence Kampuchea Presse