Phnom penh: The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) has reinforced its dedication to promote cleanliness and increase fish stock in Tonle Sap Lake and the Mekong River to ensure food security for community members in the 15 target provinces. Mrs. Rebekah Bell, Country Director of FAO to Cambodia, made the commitment in a strategic meeting with H.E. Eang Sophalleth, Cambodian Minister of Environment, held here on Dec. 4.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the discussions underscored the robust partnership between the Ministry of Environment and FAO in driving integrated conservation and sustainable development initiatives. In line with the objectives of the SAMBO TRIEI project, H.E. Dr. Eang Sophalleth also emphasized work achievements and supported the implementation of this project to ensure food security for the Cambodian people.
He further stressed the importance of ensuring that the Tonle Sap Lake and the Mekong River waters are clean and free from pollution by garbage and plastic waste, which can be a cause of fish deaths and decline. The SAMBO TRIEI Programme receives support from the Green Climate Fund (GCF) under the cooperation of four ministries - the Ministry of Economy and Finance, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, the Ministry of Environment, and the Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology.
The programme implements activities across 15 target provinces, including 6 provinces around the Tonle Sap Lake, 6 provinces along the Mekong River, plus the northern area of the Mekong River and Takeo province.