On 30 March 2016, Mr. Alexandre HUYNH met with Deputy Prime Minister H.E. Mr. Hor Namhong at the ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation to present his credential letters as new Representative of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in Cambodia. That was also an opportunity to discuss about FAO’s assistance to Cambodia.

Between 2011 and 2015, FAO has provided technical assistance for a total budget of US$28 million. FAO will continue to support the Royal Government of Cambodia, particularly in the development of profitable and sustainable agriculture, fisheries and forestry, and to improve food and nutrition security. FAO also provides support to manage natural disasters and assists the agricultural sector adaptation to climate change.

“From 2016 to 2018, FAO plans on providing targeted technical support and policy advice to Cambodia in the framework of an integrated strategic programme, the Country Programming Framework, for an estimated budget of $23 million”, Mr. Huynh said. The new FAO representative further affirmed he will continue to work closely with the Cambodian ministries and institutions to carry out FAO’s programme successfully.

H.E. Hor Namhong informed how highly FAO cooperation and support to Cambodia was valued in all sectors. He also highlighted upcoming challenges and opportunities for FAO’s support on rice and geographically-protected Kampot pepper for export, both high quality products from Cambodia recognized as best in the world.

“Every year, Cambodia has four million tons of rice to export, but Cambodia is now facing the problem of a shortage in quality production capacity. Therefore, the Cambodian government calls on foreign investors to invest in the rice production sector in Cambodia”, Mr. Namhong said.