Cambodia, Vietnam push expressway and transport links to deepen integration

HANOI, June 9, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia and Vietnam placed cross‑border connectivity at the centre of their talks this week, with leaders highlighting expressway, waterway and aviation projects as crucial to driving economic integration and trade.

Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Thipadie Hun Manet met Tran Thanh Man, President of Vietnam’s National Assembly, in Hanoi on Monday during his official visit and participation in the ASEAN Future Forum.

Both sides stressed that stronger transport networks would underpin growth, facilitate commerce and support regional cooperation.

A flagship project under discussion is the connection of Cambodia’s Phnom Penh–Bavet Expressway with Vietnam’s Ho Chi Minh City–Moc Bai route, expected to ease cargo flows and passenger travel.

The leaders also explored strengthening waterway transport and expanding direct flight connections, saying improved links would boost trade, tourism and investment.

Samdech Thipadie said infrastructure connectivity was a priority for Cambodia’s competitiveness and would unlock new opportunities for businesses and investors.

Tran Thanh Man welcomed progress and pledged Vietnam’s support for implementing agreements.

Talks also covered cooperation in trade, investment, security, education and cultural exchanges, but connectivity projects dominated, reflecting growing interest in regional transport integration across mainland Southeast Asia.

Both leaders agreed Cambodia and Vietnam possess significant untapped potential for cooperation. They said closer economic ties and stronger connectivity could help drive future growth and create new opportunities for communities on both sides of the border.