Cambodia, UNDP Deepen Ties on $47M Environmental Portfolio

PHNOM PENH, Sept 2, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia’s Ministry of Environment and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) are deepening cooperation on a portfolio of more than 20 projects worth about $47 million, focused on climate action, nature conservation, circular economy, and sustainable development, officials said Tuesday. The two sides held a Partnership Dialogue on August 31 to review progress, strengthen coordination, and set priorities for the next phase. Discussions centered on mobilizing bankable investments and financing to deliver sustainable benefits for communities and the environment. Environment Minister Eang Sophalleth said the dialogue underscored accountability and strategic focus in development cooperation, describing UNDP as a close partner of the ministry. He said the strengthened partnership would help unlock climate finance and accelerate Cambodia’s green transition, translating policies into concrete action on natural-resource management and climate change. The UNDP Country Programme Document 2024–2028 is aligned with Cambodia’s Pentagonal Strategy – Phase I, Circular Strategy on Environment 2023–2028, Climate Change Strategic Plan 2024–2033, and Third Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC 3.0). The portfolio covers ecosystem restoration, biodiversity conservation, NDC 3.0 implementation, environmental diplomacy, circular economy policies, plastic pollution reduction, REDD+ and climate adaptation. About $40 million was finalized over the past year, with resources from the Global Environment Facility, Least Developed Countries Fund, Green Climate Fund, bilateral donors, private partners, and UNDP’s own funds. For the next phase, the partners identified three priorities: investment and resource mobilization through bankable projects and financing platforms; deeper cooperation on climate, nature, and sustainable development, including waste management and resilience; and nationwide community engagement to amplify local voices and grassroots innovations. UNDP Resident Representative Enrico Gaveglia said the organization would support Cambodia’s priorities by mobilizing resources and bringing together technical expertise, financing, and innovation. Sophalleth said the partnership must remain driven by national priorities while UNDP’s expertise and international networks are translated into tangible benefits for Cambodian communities.