World Bank Reaffirms Support for Cambodia’s Water Security Compact

PHNOM PENH, April 8, 2026 (KPT) – The World Bank has reaffirmed its backing for Cambodia’s Water Security Compact, a strategic framework to strengthen national water security from 2026 to 2030, officials said Tuesday.

Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Hem Vanndy met with a World Bank delegation led by Country Manager Tania Meyer to discuss the partnership. The Compact sets out a unified vision built on three pillars – Water for People, Water for Food, and Water for Planet – aligned with Cambodia’s Pentagonal Strategy and long-term development goals.

Vanndy voiced strong support for the initiative, stressing the need for cross-sectoral coordination as Cambodia’s industrialization drives rising water demand. He noted that tariff structures remain a constraint on private sector investment, underscoring the importance of concessional financing and more flexible funding approaches.

Meyer reaffirmed the World Bank’s commitment, describing the Compact as a platform to consolidate commitments and bring together partners, including the private sector, to advance water security.

Both sides agreed to deepen collaboration through better integration of stakeholders and mobilization of concessional financing. The World Bank will also share insights from upcoming international discussions to support Cambodia’s efforts.

Officials said the Compact reflects a shared determination to safeguard water resources, ensure equitable access, and strengthen resilience against climate and development pressures.