Cambodian Senate President Calls for Protection of Mekong River Dolphins and Alternative Livelihoods

Senate President of Cambodia, Samdech Techo Hun Sen, has urged authorities in Stung Treng and Kratie provinces to cooperate in protecting the Mekong River dolphin population. He also called for the development of alternative livelihoods for residents to replace traditional fishing practices that impact the protected aquatic resources. Speaking during a meeting with local leaders in Stung Treng province on July 9th, Samdech Techo Hun Sen expressed gratitude for the efforts of the provincial leadership and civil servants, recalling two key goals previously set: infrastructure development in border areas and the establishment of a "border of peace, friendship, cooperation, and development" with neighboring countries. He highlighted that Stung Treng province has a significant heavy industry in the Sesan Lower 2 Hydropower Dam, with a capacity of over 400 megawatts. He noted that bridges across the Sesan and Mekong rivers, and road connections to Ratanakiri and Preah Vihear provinces, which were once unimaginable, have now been built, greatly facilitating the movement of people and the transportation of agricultural products. Furthermore, Samdech Techo Hun Sen re-emphasized the importance for local officials to provide services to the public quickly and efficiently. He also instructed for stricter measures to combat tax evasion and illegal commercial activities to increase national revenue. He urged the continuation of the "Safe Village-Commune" policy to maintain national stability and social order, including the crackdown on various crimes such as drug trafficking and cybercrime. He called for continued attention to former and retired soldiers, praising their significant contributions to national development. He specifically instructed authorities to pay close attention to the well-being and living conditions of fallen heroes, disabled veterans, and their families. He stated that supporting the education of their children to become intellectuals is the way to reciprocate their immense sacrifices for the nation. He also urged authorities to resolve land disputes for citizens promptly and effectively, especially through out-of-court settlements, without bias towards any party. He encouraged Stung Treng province to enhance border cooperation with Laos to maintain peace and cooperation along the border and to further promote economic and trade relations between the two countries. According to a report from the Governor of Stung Treng Province, Mr. Sar Sok Puthra, the province shares approximately 255 kilometers of border with Laos and has achieved significant infrastructure development, including bridges and road networks, as well as improvements in urban aesthetics and the construction of numerous key achievements. This provincial visit by Samdech Techo Hun Sen, President of the Senate, aims to strengthen accountability between senators and their constituents, improve the efficiency of local work, and enhance the provision of public services. His visit to Stung Treng marks his 19th such meeting and the 22nd province visited. Source: AKP Khmer