China-built National Road 71C opens to traffic in Cambodia

(ECNS) -- The China-funded National Road 71C opened to traffic in Tbong Khmum, Cambodia on Saturday. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Chinese Ambassador to Cambodia Wang Wenbin attended the inaugural ceremony.

The road spans 114.9 kilometers, connecting the provinces of Tboung Khmum and Kampong Cham, serving as a significant component of Cambodia's national road network in its central-eastern region.

The project officially began on July 4, 2021 and completed construction on July 31, 2024, with funding of approximately $130 million.

Hun Manet said China is an "indispensable friend" of Cambodia in terms of socio-economic development.

China is recognized as No. 1 partner in providing concessional loans and grants for the development of infrastructure, including roads and bridges across Cambodia, he said.

The alignment between China's Belt and Road Initiative and Cambodia's Pentagonal Strategy has provided "win-win results", it was added.

Peng Ponea, minister of public works and transport, said the road will facilitate travel, trade, and tourism in both countries and nearby provinces. It will also aid the transportation of crop seeds, agricultural, and agro-industrial products, reducing costs and travel time.

Speaking at the event, the Chinese ambassador said that to date, China has helped construct national roads totaling over 4,000 kilometers and more than 10 large-scale bridges.

"Roads and bridges across the Mekong and Tonle Sap Rivers have not only facilitated the daily travel of Cambodian people, but also injected vigorous energy into local development," he said.

(By Li Yan)