Phnom Penh: H.E. Hem Vanndy, Minister of Industry, Science, Technology, and Innovation, has encouraged the European Union (EU) to consider targeted support for extending water supply services to underserved communities, with a particular focus on the critical “last mile” delivery.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, during a meeting with the EU delegation, H.E. Hem Vanndy reiterated that continued EU assistance-especially in the form of grant funding-can help close service gaps and ensure clean water access for all. He also sought technical assistance to enhance Cambodia’s regulatory framework and strengthen the effective management of clean water services.

The EU has a long-standing partnership with Cambodia on various development efforts, including in the water supply sector. EU Ambassador to Cambodia H.E. Igor Driesmans expressed the EU’s continued commitment to support Cambodia. The EU has also pledged to support a training centre for water supply professionals.

Beyond water access, discussions also covered potential cooperation to promote national laboratory services, international standards adoption, and green energy in industry. H.E. Hem Vanndy welcomed the EU’s upcoming £6 million grant for energy efficiency in industry in Cambodia, stating that Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles are central to Cambodia’s sustainable industrial transition as the country prepares to graduate from Least Developed Country status by December 2025.