Cambodian Rural Development Minister Meets UNESCO Representative to Discuss Future Cooperation

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Sept. 13, 2025) — Minister of Rural Development Chhay Rithisen met Friday with Sardar Umar Alam, head of the UNESCO Office in Cambodia, to discuss potential collaboration on sustainable rural development initiatives.

During the meeting, Rithisen outlined the Royal Government’s Pentagon Strategy, a key policy framework under the 7th Legislature of the National Assembly led by Prime Minister Hun Manet. He said the strategy builds on the foundation laid by former Prime Minister Hun Sen and aims to achieve Cambodia Vision 2050, transforming the country into a high-income nation.

Rithisen also highlighted the Ministry’s recent achievements, which focus on building prosperous, environmentally sustainable, innovative, digital, and resilient rural communities. He presented five priority programs designed to promote rural integration, accelerate development, and improve livelihoods for rural families.

Alam, making his first official visit to the Ministry, praised its progress and reaffirmed UNESCO’s commitment to supporting sustainable development. He shared insights from UNESCO’s partnerships with 12 Cambodian ministries and institutions in areas including culture, education, tourism, and science.

The meeting also explored opportunities for future cooperation, particularly in developing model villages and other rural initiatives. Alam said the discussion offered valuable perspectives on Cambodia’s rural development landscape.

Before concluding, Rithisen thanked Alam and his delegation for their visit and expressed support for expanding collaboration. As a gesture of goodwill, the minister presented commemorative souvenirs to the UNESCO team.