By Soy Sophea
The U.S. and Cambodian governments have inked amendments on two bilateral agreements that provide US $34.3 million in funding over the course of 2008. The projects will be funded from the coffers of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and will support Cambodian priorities in areas such as healthcare and education.
The signing ceremony was presided over by Prime Minister Hun Sen and U.S. Ambassador to Cambodia Joseph A. Mussomeli. It took place on August 25, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MoFAIC). Hor Namhong, deputy prime minister and minister of MoFAIC, and Erin Soto, mission director of USAID, signed on behalf of their respective governments. The new funding forms part of the US $200 million that USAID has provided in support of health and education in Cambodia since 2002.
Hor Namhong expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the U.S for Her continuing support for Cambodia’s development and prosperity.
The amendment to the first agreement consists of US $32.2 million in grant funds to achieve health objectives. Funds will be used to promote a variety of activities to reduce the transmission and impact of HIV/AIDS; to prevent and control the spread of major infectious diseases such as tuberculosis; to fight avian influenza; to improve reproductive, maternal and children’s health; and to strengthen Cambodian public-health systems, including the technical skills of health care workers.
The amendment to the second agreement will provide over US $2 million in grant funds to support the Cambodian government’s education objectives. These funds will support ongoing programs aimed at improving the quality of basic education and access to schooling for all children, including minorities, individuals with disabilities, and the very poor. Activities will also focus on implementing the new national curriculum and improving learning standards, reducing school dropout and repetition rates through the introduction of improvements in teaching quality, and measuring student academic achievement.
USAID expects to commit a total of US $57.5 million in assistance to Cambodia in 2008.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Artists Happy With Their Painting Business
By Soy Sophea
Towards the close of Tuesday August 19, a thin gray-haired man is busy with his client’s order for three large paintings. His head, bent in concentration cannot hide the smile on the artist’s face as he listens to his client’s orders concerning the size of the paintings.
Sen Samouen, 48, is a painter with almost 30 years of experience and he is highly satisfied with his art business, located near the National Museum in Phnom Penh. This is a popular center for artists in Phnom Penh, many of whom have set up shop in this district of the city.
Although Samouen only recently established his painting business in a rented house, he said he has as many clients as those art houses with a longer history.
Samouen said that he can sell at least five to 10 paintings, with earnings of about US $200-300, per day. “I get orders almost daily,” he said. “My customers tell me my work makes an ideal house warming gift.”
Sameoun, who also taught painting, added that his wife devotes her time to serving clients at his painting gallery. Although her English is not perfect, it is more that good enough, in conjunction with her warm heart and smile, to welcome foreign buyers. They appear to appreciate her husband’s landscape paintings more than any other subject.
Yem Sreymom, the artist’s wife, said that she was lucky to run her own painting business during this boom time in the housing market. She said that the quality and reasonable price of her husband’s work usually guaranteed repeat purchases from satisfied customers.
“If we sell the art at too high price, they will not come again,” Sreymom said. “I just get a small profit per painting but sell a lot. That ties my clients to my business forever.”
She said that buying a painting as a gift for a house warming ceremony is a new development and illustrates the improved quality of life for Cambodians.
Not only Sen Samoeun but other artists who have shops agreed that business has improved recently. Hen Sophal, 50, an artist and the owner of Hen Sophal’s Gallery agreed with Samoeun’s view of the profession.
Sophal said that the painting business is improving as Cambodian people like paintings to decorate their homes and bought many for friends and relatives. He said this year he could sell up to 1,000 paintings, earning about US $10,000 per month. In 2006, he sold only 400 paintings.
He based much of his success on his gallery’s location, being close to the National Museum and the Royal Palace.
“The place can be seen easily when tourists visit the National Museum and Royal Palace and they want to buy some souvenirs,” he said. “Cambodians know this place as the Downtown Painting Gallery.”
He added that, “The price of the paintings depends on the achievement of the artist.”
He said that he always gets orders for paintings. “Sometimes I don’t have much time to paint because there are too many orders,” he said. “But I have to do it. It is money.”
Say Vicheth, 27, an architect student at a Phnom Penh University, expressed his pleasure at walking into his classically styled villa, decked out with paintings across the walls. “I have spent a hundred dollars on four paintings for the living room and my bed room,” he said. “They give me something to look at when I get bored.”
Given the choice between a photograph and a painting he would chose the painting, he said. However, he always buys paintings as souvenirs when he is invited to a house warming ceremony. That way, he can be sure that he will always be remembered.
Towards the close of Tuesday August 19, a thin gray-haired man is busy with his client’s order for three large paintings. His head, bent in concentration cannot hide the smile on the artist’s face as he listens to his client’s orders concerning the size of the paintings.
Sen Samouen, 48, is a painter with almost 30 years of experience and he is highly satisfied with his art business, located near the National Museum in Phnom Penh. This is a popular center for artists in Phnom Penh, many of whom have set up shop in this district of the city.
Although Samouen only recently established his painting business in a rented house, he said he has as many clients as those art houses with a longer history.
Samouen said that he can sell at least five to 10 paintings, with earnings of about US $200-300, per day. “I get orders almost daily,” he said. “My customers tell me my work makes an ideal house warming gift.”
Sameoun, who also taught painting, added that his wife devotes her time to serving clients at his painting gallery. Although her English is not perfect, it is more that good enough, in conjunction with her warm heart and smile, to welcome foreign buyers. They appear to appreciate her husband’s landscape paintings more than any other subject.
Yem Sreymom, the artist’s wife, said that she was lucky to run her own painting business during this boom time in the housing market. She said that the quality and reasonable price of her husband’s work usually guaranteed repeat purchases from satisfied customers.
“If we sell the art at too high price, they will not come again,” Sreymom said. “I just get a small profit per painting but sell a lot. That ties my clients to my business forever.”
She said that buying a painting as a gift for a house warming ceremony is a new development and illustrates the improved quality of life for Cambodians.
Not only Sen Samoeun but other artists who have shops agreed that business has improved recently. Hen Sophal, 50, an artist and the owner of Hen Sophal’s Gallery agreed with Samoeun’s view of the profession.
Sophal said that the painting business is improving as Cambodian people like paintings to decorate their homes and bought many for friends and relatives. He said this year he could sell up to 1,000 paintings, earning about US $10,000 per month. In 2006, he sold only 400 paintings.
He based much of his success on his gallery’s location, being close to the National Museum and the Royal Palace.
“The place can be seen easily when tourists visit the National Museum and Royal Palace and they want to buy some souvenirs,” he said. “Cambodians know this place as the Downtown Painting Gallery.”
He added that, “The price of the paintings depends on the achievement of the artist.”
He said that he always gets orders for paintings. “Sometimes I don’t have much time to paint because there are too many orders,” he said. “But I have to do it. It is money.”
Say Vicheth, 27, an architect student at a Phnom Penh University, expressed his pleasure at walking into his classically styled villa, decked out with paintings across the walls. “I have spent a hundred dollars on four paintings for the living room and my bed room,” he said. “They give me something to look at when I get bored.”
Given the choice between a photograph and a painting he would chose the painting, he said. However, he always buys paintings as souvenirs when he is invited to a house warming ceremony. That way, he can be sure that he will always be remembered.
Cambodia to Export Bio Energy to European Markets starting October this Year
By Soy Sophea
Cambodian energy officials have expressed satisfaction with the private sector which has promised to produce ethanol for energy needs while the price of petroleum is increasing.
Ith Prang, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Mines, Industry and Energy, said that currently there is a range of alternative fuel sources that may be harnessed to supply the World’s demands.
Even though Cambodia does not as yet produce ethanol to reduce her energy demands, he urged all those with the capacity to cater for demand in Cambodia. He compared the 10 percent of motive power generated by ethanol in Thailand to the 25 percent generated by the same means in Brazil.
He said his ministry is conducting research into the uses for ethanol and is looking into ways to produce the fuel additive more effectively out of the raw materials such as cassava and corn.
The Secretary of State recommended the use of ethanol as it is kinder to the environment and has less impact on global warming. “It is good for keeping our environment clean and safe for both human and animal life.”
Khieu Pongly, Assistant Officer with the Raw Materials Department of MH Bio Energy Group, said that his factory needs to buy at least 300 tons of cassava per day to produce biomass and ethanol. He estimated that demand would be fully supplied even though the factory opened as recently as June this year.
Pongly said cassavas had been chosen to produce ethanol. He also said that the use of ethanol has less effect on the environment, and that his company produces ethanol for the European market rather than the Cambodian. He said most countries in Europe cannot get enough of the gasoline additive.
According to current market prices, cassava now costs US $170 to $180 per ton. It takes roughly 2.5 kilograms of cassava to produce one liter of ethanol. Cambodia's current cassava crop is insufficient to meet the needs of the ethanol industry and Pongly said he had to import more of the crop from Vietnam. His distilleries can process up to 135,000 tons of cassava per year, but the entire cassava crop from Kampong Cham and Battambang provinces amounts to no more than 20,000 tons per year.
Pongly said that the price of ethanol which can be used instead of gasoline is about US $500 per ton. He confirmed that his company is ready to transport ethanol to European countries in October this year. He said that with the investment of US $11 million, MH Bio Energy Group will focus exclusively on the European market.
Choi Wee Sung, chairman of MH Bio Energy Group, met Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen in July, briefing to the Prime Minister of his company’s goal in producing bio energy. He was quoted in local newspapers as asking the Prime Minister to encourage farmers to grow cassava. He said that he had purchased 30,000 tons of the crops to date at a cost of US $5.6 million.
He said at the same time as the world needs petroleum, it also needs bio energy. He added that in Thailand 10 percent of energy needs are satisfied by biomass, whilst in Brazil the figure was 25 percent. He said that South Korea was looking to boost ethanol use by 5 percent, leading up to 2010.
Sek Chim, 59, who plants cassava over 20 hectares of land in Snuol district, Kratie province, said that he has planted cassava for three years. Previously he planted cassavas across only five hectares of land.
Chim said that planting cassava is an easy matter and a very efficient way to generate personal cash. “Before I started planting, my family’s condition was average,” he said. “But now I am the proud owner of two new tractors and a brand new $50, 000 house.”
Chim appealed to other Cambodian farmers to think about planting for the production of power. With 20 tons of cassava per hectare, it made good sense to grow the crop.
In order to maintain soil fertility, Yang Saing Koma, President of the Cambodia Center for Study and Development in Agriculture (CEDAC), made a timely reminder to all farmers to adopt a crop rotation system, planting cassava this year and nitrogen enriching crops the next.
Cambodian energy officials have expressed satisfaction with the private sector which has promised to produce ethanol for energy needs while the price of petroleum is increasing.
Ith Prang, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Mines, Industry and Energy, said that currently there is a range of alternative fuel sources that may be harnessed to supply the World’s demands.
Even though Cambodia does not as yet produce ethanol to reduce her energy demands, he urged all those with the capacity to cater for demand in Cambodia. He compared the 10 percent of motive power generated by ethanol in Thailand to the 25 percent generated by the same means in Brazil.
He said his ministry is conducting research into the uses for ethanol and is looking into ways to produce the fuel additive more effectively out of the raw materials such as cassava and corn.
The Secretary of State recommended the use of ethanol as it is kinder to the environment and has less impact on global warming. “It is good for keeping our environment clean and safe for both human and animal life.”
Khieu Pongly, Assistant Officer with the Raw Materials Department of MH Bio Energy Group, said that his factory needs to buy at least 300 tons of cassava per day to produce biomass and ethanol. He estimated that demand would be fully supplied even though the factory opened as recently as June this year.
Pongly said cassavas had been chosen to produce ethanol. He also said that the use of ethanol has less effect on the environment, and that his company produces ethanol for the European market rather than the Cambodian. He said most countries in Europe cannot get enough of the gasoline additive.
According to current market prices, cassava now costs US $170 to $180 per ton. It takes roughly 2.5 kilograms of cassava to produce one liter of ethanol. Cambodia's current cassava crop is insufficient to meet the needs of the ethanol industry and Pongly said he had to import more of the crop from Vietnam. His distilleries can process up to 135,000 tons of cassava per year, but the entire cassava crop from Kampong Cham and Battambang provinces amounts to no more than 20,000 tons per year.
Pongly said that the price of ethanol which can be used instead of gasoline is about US $500 per ton. He confirmed that his company is ready to transport ethanol to European countries in October this year. He said that with the investment of US $11 million, MH Bio Energy Group will focus exclusively on the European market.
Choi Wee Sung, chairman of MH Bio Energy Group, met Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen in July, briefing to the Prime Minister of his company’s goal in producing bio energy. He was quoted in local newspapers as asking the Prime Minister to encourage farmers to grow cassava. He said that he had purchased 30,000 tons of the crops to date at a cost of US $5.6 million.
He said at the same time as the world needs petroleum, it also needs bio energy. He added that in Thailand 10 percent of energy needs are satisfied by biomass, whilst in Brazil the figure was 25 percent. He said that South Korea was looking to boost ethanol use by 5 percent, leading up to 2010.
Sek Chim, 59, who plants cassava over 20 hectares of land in Snuol district, Kratie province, said that he has planted cassava for three years. Previously he planted cassavas across only five hectares of land.
Chim said that planting cassava is an easy matter and a very efficient way to generate personal cash. “Before I started planting, my family’s condition was average,” he said. “But now I am the proud owner of two new tractors and a brand new $50, 000 house.”
Chim appealed to other Cambodian farmers to think about planting for the production of power. With 20 tons of cassava per hectare, it made good sense to grow the crop.
In order to maintain soil fertility, Yang Saing Koma, President of the Cambodia Center for Study and Development in Agriculture (CEDAC), made a timely reminder to all farmers to adopt a crop rotation system, planting cassava this year and nitrogen enriching crops the next.
U.S.-Cambodia Relationship Improves in Recent Years: U.S Ambassador Joseph Mussomeli
By Soy Sophea
Resplendent in a dark red T-shirt and standing behind an impressive-looking bank of microphones, U.S. Ambassador Joseph Mussomeli told reporters August 25 that the relationship between Cambodia and U.S. has improved last recent years. Behind his desk the two flags, one the national flag of Cambodia, the other the “Stars ’n’ Bars” of the United States, appeared to flutter in full agreement.
"The relationship between the two countries has improved markedly over the last two years," Ambassador Mussomeli told reporters at the U.S. Embassy on the final day of his three-year-diplomatic mission in Cambodia. "I'm hesitant to say that, because I think it still has a long way to go. As many of you have heard me say before, a few years of good relations can't really compensate for decades of misunderstandings and distrust."
Mussomeli, 56, arrived in Cambodia in 2005. During his duty in Cambodia, the Ambassador visited 24 cities and provinces throughout the kingdom.
Sin Bunthoeun, spokesman for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, told the Cambodia Weekly on August 27 that Ambassador Mussomeli is an active person. He has exerted himself and made every effort to extend and cement bilateral relations between the two nations.
“He visited our cities and provinces during his tour of duty and encouraged the visits of many U.S delegates to Cambodia. In addition, the U.S. Navy has been no stranger but a welcome guest to our ports under Ambassador Mussomeli’s watch,” Bunthoeun said. “He has been a great Ambassador and has served both Cambodia and the United States well.”
“During his term and with his help, the U.S government’s humanitarian nature has been clear for all to see. The U.S. has always been a generous friend to the humanitarian cause and Mr. Mussomeli’s offices in facilitating this flow of support are recognized and deeply appreciated,” he added.
Cambodian civil associations also added their voice in praise of the departing Ambassador.
Rong Chhon, president of the Cambodian Independent Teachers Association, noted that the Ambassador has a track record second to none in helping Cambodia restore democracy, freedom of expression, economic development and social harmony.
“I believe that what the ambassador has achieved constitutes a precedent to be followed by his successor, the next U.S. Ambassadors to Cambodia,” Chhon said. “Apart from everything else, he has helped cement the excellent relations that now exist between the governments of Cambodia and America.”
Kek Galabru, president of LICADHO (Cambodian League for the Promotion and Defense of Human Rights), said that she appreciated Ambassador Mussomeli’s selfless efforts in support of local NGOs.
“He always paid the fullest attention to our issues, even though our proposals to him were sometimes overly brief or roughly hewn,” she said. “He made an excellent coordinator and his open sincerity helped foster such good and productive relationships between the Cambodian government, local NGOs and civil societies.”
Ambassador Mussomeli left Cambodia late Monday. He will be replaced later this year by Carol Rodley, a former deputy head of mission with experience in Cambodia dating from the period 1997 to 2000.
Mr. Mussomeli was born in New York City on May 26, 1952. He graduated from Camden Catholic High School in 1970. He then went to Rutgers University for two years before dropping out and becoming an upholsterer, and then spending several months hitch-hiking through Europe. Upon returning to the United States, he attended Trenton State College and graduated summa cum laude in 1975, earning a BA in Political Science. In 1978 he earned his Juris Doctor’s degree from Rutgers Law School.
Following law school Mr. Mussomeli served as a law clerk to the Appellate Court of New Jersey from 1978-1979, and then worked for a year as a Deputy Attorney General in the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement.
Mr. Mussomeli entered the Foreign Service in September 1980 and began his career by serving in Cairo, Egypt, as a general service officer. Following his stay in Cairo, Mr. Mussomeli served as staff assistant to the Undersecretary for Security Assistance. His extensive resume also includes service performed as the North Korea Desk Officer, Senior Watch Officer, Economic Counselor in Colombo, Sri Lanka, and Inspector for the Office of Inspector General, Political Counselor in Rabat, Morocco. Mr. Mussomeli has also served as Deputy Chief of the Mission in Manama, Bahrain, and as a member of the Senior Seminar. He concluded a tour as Deputy Chief of Mission in the Philippines (2002-2005) before being assigned the Ambassadorship to Cambodia.
Mr. Mussomeli has received several awards including two Superior Honor Awards, one Group Superior Honor Award, and two Meritorious Honor Awards. His spouse, Sharon Flack Mussomeli, is also a Foreign Service officer. They have three children, Isaac, age 24, Alexis, age 22, and Thomas, age 4.
Resplendent in a dark red T-shirt and standing behind an impressive-looking bank of microphones, U.S. Ambassador Joseph Mussomeli told reporters August 25 that the relationship between Cambodia and U.S. has improved last recent years. Behind his desk the two flags, one the national flag of Cambodia, the other the “Stars ’n’ Bars” of the United States, appeared to flutter in full agreement.
"The relationship between the two countries has improved markedly over the last two years," Ambassador Mussomeli told reporters at the U.S. Embassy on the final day of his three-year-diplomatic mission in Cambodia. "I'm hesitant to say that, because I think it still has a long way to go. As many of you have heard me say before, a few years of good relations can't really compensate for decades of misunderstandings and distrust."
Mussomeli, 56, arrived in Cambodia in 2005. During his duty in Cambodia, the Ambassador visited 24 cities and provinces throughout the kingdom.
Sin Bunthoeun, spokesman for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, told the Cambodia Weekly on August 27 that Ambassador Mussomeli is an active person. He has exerted himself and made every effort to extend and cement bilateral relations between the two nations.
“He visited our cities and provinces during his tour of duty and encouraged the visits of many U.S delegates to Cambodia. In addition, the U.S. Navy has been no stranger but a welcome guest to our ports under Ambassador Mussomeli’s watch,” Bunthoeun said. “He has been a great Ambassador and has served both Cambodia and the United States well.”
“During his term and with his help, the U.S government’s humanitarian nature has been clear for all to see. The U.S. has always been a generous friend to the humanitarian cause and Mr. Mussomeli’s offices in facilitating this flow of support are recognized and deeply appreciated,” he added.
Cambodian civil associations also added their voice in praise of the departing Ambassador.
Rong Chhon, president of the Cambodian Independent Teachers Association, noted that the Ambassador has a track record second to none in helping Cambodia restore democracy, freedom of expression, economic development and social harmony.
“I believe that what the ambassador has achieved constitutes a precedent to be followed by his successor, the next U.S. Ambassadors to Cambodia,” Chhon said. “Apart from everything else, he has helped cement the excellent relations that now exist between the governments of Cambodia and America.”
Kek Galabru, president of LICADHO (Cambodian League for the Promotion and Defense of Human Rights), said that she appreciated Ambassador Mussomeli’s selfless efforts in support of local NGOs.
“He always paid the fullest attention to our issues, even though our proposals to him were sometimes overly brief or roughly hewn,” she said. “He made an excellent coordinator and his open sincerity helped foster such good and productive relationships between the Cambodian government, local NGOs and civil societies.”
Ambassador Mussomeli left Cambodia late Monday. He will be replaced later this year by Carol Rodley, a former deputy head of mission with experience in Cambodia dating from the period 1997 to 2000.
Mr. Mussomeli was born in New York City on May 26, 1952. He graduated from Camden Catholic High School in 1970. He then went to Rutgers University for two years before dropping out and becoming an upholsterer, and then spending several months hitch-hiking through Europe. Upon returning to the United States, he attended Trenton State College and graduated summa cum laude in 1975, earning a BA in Political Science. In 1978 he earned his Juris Doctor’s degree from Rutgers Law School.
Following law school Mr. Mussomeli served as a law clerk to the Appellate Court of New Jersey from 1978-1979, and then worked for a year as a Deputy Attorney General in the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement.
Mr. Mussomeli entered the Foreign Service in September 1980 and began his career by serving in Cairo, Egypt, as a general service officer. Following his stay in Cairo, Mr. Mussomeli served as staff assistant to the Undersecretary for Security Assistance. His extensive resume also includes service performed as the North Korea Desk Officer, Senior Watch Officer, Economic Counselor in Colombo, Sri Lanka, and Inspector for the Office of Inspector General, Political Counselor in Rabat, Morocco. Mr. Mussomeli has also served as Deputy Chief of the Mission in Manama, Bahrain, and as a member of the Senior Seminar. He concluded a tour as Deputy Chief of Mission in the Philippines (2002-2005) before being assigned the Ambassadorship to Cambodia.
Mr. Mussomeli has received several awards including two Superior Honor Awards, one Group Superior Honor Award, and two Meritorious Honor Awards. His spouse, Sharon Flack Mussomeli, is also a Foreign Service officer. They have three children, Isaac, age 24, Alexis, age 22, and Thomas, age 4.
U.S., Cambodia Continue To Preserve Ancient Artifacts
By Rachael Brugger and Soy Sophea
The U.S. Embassy showed its continuing support of Cambodia’s preservation of ancient culture in a ceremony that took place Aug. 18 at the National Museum in Phnom Penh.
While the U.S. Ambassador to Cambodia Joseph Mussomeli and Secretary of State from the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts Chuch Phoeurn extended an agreement made in 2003 to prevent the illegal deportation of artifacts into the U.S. and expanded the document to include artifacts from the Bronze Age to the Khmer era, they also discussed the U.S. Embassy’s donation of US $45,000 to aid in preservation of the National Museum’s library.
“It is so important for the National Museum’s library and the renewal of the memorandum of understanding in 2003,” Phoeurn said.
Hab Touch, director of the National Museum, said the library needs work in order to preserve the books properly. Touch considered the donation from the U.S. Embassy as a means to enhance the library and make the collection—which includes books on Cambodian arts, culture, performance, temples and artifacts as well as French works from during the colonial era—more useful for readers, researchers and scholars.
“It is an interesting small collection, with things not available anywhere else in town,” said Margaret Bywater, program director of the museum’s library project.
She said the money will go toward the reorganizing the library with an international standard library database, as well as in improving its access and preservation through the installation of new shelving and staff training. The project should take 18 to 24 months to complete.
“It’s one of the few funds of money that we have where the U.S. Embassy gets more of a say in what we do with the money rather than having to go through the huge bureaucracy back in Washington, and we get select those small matters that we think we can make a big contribution to,” said Mussomeli.
The document signed by Mussomeli and Phoeurn during Monday’s events, will continue the agreement between the U.S. and Cambodia to provide protection for Cambodia’s treasured artifacts. It specifically restricts U.S. importation of ancient Cambodian stone, metal and ceramic archaeological material unless an export permit is issued by Cambodia or there is verifiable documentation that the objects left Cambodia prior to the effective date of the restriction, according to a U.S. Embassy statement.
Cambodia is the first East Asian country to receive the U.S.’s support in the protection of cultural property in this manner.
“Cambodia looks toward the future, but has to continue to be rooted in the past, or we will get lost in the future and forget about the past,” Mussomeli said. “So we’re happy and honored to be able to help Cambodia preserve its past even as it builds its future.”
Also this year, the U.S. Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation provided the World Monuments Fund with nearly one million US dollars for the continued preservation and conservation of Phnom Bakheng Temple that is located within the Angkor Archaeological Zone, according a press statement of U.S. Embassy on June 4. This is part of more than US $866,000 the U.S. government has given to cultural preservation projects in Cambodia over the past several years.
The U.S. Embassy showed its continuing support of Cambodia’s preservation of ancient culture in a ceremony that took place Aug. 18 at the National Museum in Phnom Penh.
While the U.S. Ambassador to Cambodia Joseph Mussomeli and Secretary of State from the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts Chuch Phoeurn extended an agreement made in 2003 to prevent the illegal deportation of artifacts into the U.S. and expanded the document to include artifacts from the Bronze Age to the Khmer era, they also discussed the U.S. Embassy’s donation of US $45,000 to aid in preservation of the National Museum’s library.
“It is so important for the National Museum’s library and the renewal of the memorandum of understanding in 2003,” Phoeurn said.
Hab Touch, director of the National Museum, said the library needs work in order to preserve the books properly. Touch considered the donation from the U.S. Embassy as a means to enhance the library and make the collection—which includes books on Cambodian arts, culture, performance, temples and artifacts as well as French works from during the colonial era—more useful for readers, researchers and scholars.
“It is an interesting small collection, with things not available anywhere else in town,” said Margaret Bywater, program director of the museum’s library project.
She said the money will go toward the reorganizing the library with an international standard library database, as well as in improving its access and preservation through the installation of new shelving and staff training. The project should take 18 to 24 months to complete.
“It’s one of the few funds of money that we have where the U.S. Embassy gets more of a say in what we do with the money rather than having to go through the huge bureaucracy back in Washington, and we get select those small matters that we think we can make a big contribution to,” said Mussomeli.
The document signed by Mussomeli and Phoeurn during Monday’s events, will continue the agreement between the U.S. and Cambodia to provide protection for Cambodia’s treasured artifacts. It specifically restricts U.S. importation of ancient Cambodian stone, metal and ceramic archaeological material unless an export permit is issued by Cambodia or there is verifiable documentation that the objects left Cambodia prior to the effective date of the restriction, according to a U.S. Embassy statement.
Cambodia is the first East Asian country to receive the U.S.’s support in the protection of cultural property in this manner.
“Cambodia looks toward the future, but has to continue to be rooted in the past, or we will get lost in the future and forget about the past,” Mussomeli said. “So we’re happy and honored to be able to help Cambodia preserve its past even as it builds its future.”
Also this year, the U.S. Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation provided the World Monuments Fund with nearly one million US dollars for the continued preservation and conservation of Phnom Bakheng Temple that is located within the Angkor Archaeological Zone, according a press statement of U.S. Embassy on June 4. This is part of more than US $866,000 the U.S. government has given to cultural preservation projects in Cambodia over the past several years.
Cambodian and Thai Foreign Ministers to meet August 18
By Soy Sophea
The military standoff at Preah Vihear is winding down after both heads of the two governments (Cambodian and Thai) continued discussions to resolve the border tensions,
Cambodian officials told reporters after a Cambodian government meeting on August 8.
Khieu Kanharith, Cambodian Government Spokesman and Information Minister, said Cambodian and Thai Prime Ministers agreed to have a foreign ministerial meetingon August 18 in Hua Hin, Thailand. [Deputy Prime Minister] Hor Namhong will meet his
Thai counterpart and also pay a courtesy call to His Majesty, the King of Thailand,” Kanharith said.
In a speech broadcast on state radio on Wednesday, Prime Minister Hun Sen also said that the Deputy Prime Minister Hor Namhong, who is also the Minister of Foreign
Affairs and International Cooperation will meet his Thai counterpart on August 18.
The military standoff at Preah Vihear is winding down after both heads of the two governments (Cambodian and Thai) continued discussions to resolve the border tensions,
Cambodian officials told reporters after a Cambodian government meeting on August 8.
Khieu Kanharith, Cambodian Government Spokesman and Information Minister, said Cambodian and Thai Prime Ministers agreed to have a foreign ministerial meetingon August 18 in Hua Hin, Thailand. [Deputy Prime Minister] Hor Namhong will meet his
Thai counterpart and also pay a courtesy call to His Majesty, the King of Thailand,” Kanharith said.
In a speech broadcast on state radio on Wednesday, Prime Minister Hun Sen also said that the Deputy Prime Minister Hor Namhong, who is also the Minister of Foreign
Affairs and International Cooperation will meet his Thai counterpart on August 18.
Situation on Cambodia, Thailand Border Improves with Progress of Bilateral Talks
By Soy Sophea
During a meeting held at Hua Hin, Thailand on August 18-19, Cambodian and Thai Foreign Ministers welcomed the reduction of tension in the area. This is a reflection of the “success of bilateral talks between the two countries”.
Deputy Prime Minister Hor Namhong, minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, told reporters upon his return to Phnom Penh August 20 that a final resolution of the issues will be solved through bilateral talks. These are progressing, albeit slowly.
“Tej Bunnag [the Foreign Minister of Thailand] is in complete agreement that settlement of territorial disputes with armed forces is out of date,” he said. “So, we will solve any problems through peaceful dialogue, as friendly neighboring states should.”
The Deputy Prime Minister added, “I hope that soon, troops from both nations currently deployed around Keo Sikha Kiri Svara pagoda will be removed.”
According to a joint press briefing issued August 18-19, both Foreign Ministers have reached agreement on the fundamental points: firstly, both sides welcome the first-phase redeployment of their respective troops out of the “Keo Sikha Kiri Svara” pagoda, the area surrounding the Pagoda, and the Temple of Preah Vihea. In addition, agreements have been reached to convene a second meeting between the Head of the Cambodian Temporary Coordinating Task Force and the Head of the Thai Regional Border Committee. The meeting will take place on 29th August 2008 in Cambodia to discuss the second phase of redeployment.
Secondly, both sides have agreed to recommend to their respective governments that the next meeting of the Thai-Cambodian Joint Commission on Demarcation for Land Boundary (JBC) be convened in early October 2008. This meeting will discuss issues related to the survey and demarcation of the relevant sector under the Terms of Reference and Master Plan of the JBC. All deliberations will take place in the presence of Thai and Cambodian legal experts.
Var Kimhong, Cambodia’s Border Committee Director, told reporters on August 20 that, “For us the picture is clear and is based on internationally recognized maps created by French and Siamese cartographers.”
In the third and final point covered by the press conference, the Foreign Ministers of the two countries will meet again after the JBC meeting. In this meeting, both sides will encourage their respective governments to create a provisional arrangement, pending completion of the work of the JBC in the Preah Vihear area. For Thailand, such provisional arrangements may be entered into only in accordance with Thai constitutional and domestic legal procedures and requirements.
Finally, both sides agreed to consider the issue of the Tamone Temples at the next Foreign Ministers’ Meeting.
During a meeting held at Hua Hin, Thailand on August 18-19, Cambodian and Thai Foreign Ministers welcomed the reduction of tension in the area. This is a reflection of the “success of bilateral talks between the two countries”.
Deputy Prime Minister Hor Namhong, minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, told reporters upon his return to Phnom Penh August 20 that a final resolution of the issues will be solved through bilateral talks. These are progressing, albeit slowly.
“Tej Bunnag [the Foreign Minister of Thailand] is in complete agreement that settlement of territorial disputes with armed forces is out of date,” he said. “So, we will solve any problems through peaceful dialogue, as friendly neighboring states should.”
The Deputy Prime Minister added, “I hope that soon, troops from both nations currently deployed around Keo Sikha Kiri Svara pagoda will be removed.”
According to a joint press briefing issued August 18-19, both Foreign Ministers have reached agreement on the fundamental points: firstly, both sides welcome the first-phase redeployment of their respective troops out of the “Keo Sikha Kiri Svara” pagoda, the area surrounding the Pagoda, and the Temple of Preah Vihea. In addition, agreements have been reached to convene a second meeting between the Head of the Cambodian Temporary Coordinating Task Force and the Head of the Thai Regional Border Committee. The meeting will take place on 29th August 2008 in Cambodia to discuss the second phase of redeployment.
Secondly, both sides have agreed to recommend to their respective governments that the next meeting of the Thai-Cambodian Joint Commission on Demarcation for Land Boundary (JBC) be convened in early October 2008. This meeting will discuss issues related to the survey and demarcation of the relevant sector under the Terms of Reference and Master Plan of the JBC. All deliberations will take place in the presence of Thai and Cambodian legal experts.
Var Kimhong, Cambodia’s Border Committee Director, told reporters on August 20 that, “For us the picture is clear and is based on internationally recognized maps created by French and Siamese cartographers.”
In the third and final point covered by the press conference, the Foreign Ministers of the two countries will meet again after the JBC meeting. In this meeting, both sides will encourage their respective governments to create a provisional arrangement, pending completion of the work of the JBC in the Preah Vihear area. For Thailand, such provisional arrangements may be entered into only in accordance with Thai constitutional and domestic legal procedures and requirements.
Finally, both sides agreed to consider the issue of the Tamone Temples at the next Foreign Ministers’ Meeting.
A Successful Businessman Speaks about Tourism Boats
By Soy Sophea
At around 9 am on a sunny Wednesday August 6 a young, bearded man is looking for clients along the Tonle Sap Riverside near the front of the Royal Palace. Every minute he keeps his eyes on bird. He is thin and attractive with an active patter, ready for any tourist who crosses his path. “Sir! You like boat with fresh air of Mekong.”
Nov Samoun, 26, who is a worker for Narin Tourism Boats, docked near the front of the Royal Palace, said that foreigners liked to travel by boat. Although his boss has a good connection with travel agencies he is still assigned to keep a lookout for foreigners and Cambodians who like to go sightseeing by boat. Samoun said he was there because some tourists need to rent well decorated boats. His boss’s name is Rin Narin.
To become a skillful boat tourism businessman, it took Rin Narin 18 years to gain the appropriate nautical experience. He opened his business in 2000 for local and international tourists in Phnom Penh. Narin realized how to run the tourism boat business when he started with two small boats, serving tourists and gaining recommendations and a reputation for good service.
Narin, 51, was born in Chong Koh village, Khsach Kandal district, Kandal province, where his father used to be a ferryman almost his entire life. He said that before starting the business he gained experience in navigation at Phnom Penh Port.
“It is not so easy to survive in a competitive business atmosphere,” he said. “I take a lot of risks and chances.”
However, Narin said that the 18 years of experience encouraged him to buy a small tourism boat in 2000 when he saw the Cambodian tourism potential. At that time, he remembered that less than one million tourists per year visited Cambodia. However at the same time, tourist agencies requested him to increase the number of his boats. He said that at least three tourist agencies booked his boats when he had only two tourism boats to serve them with.
Besides Narin’s boats, there are also 20 other tourism boats, owned by other five to six businessmen in competition with Narin. However Narin’s business is stronger compared to theirs.
Narin said he could earn up to US $1,000 per month with his four boats. In eight years, he has so far gained assets including four boats worth about US $110,000. According to the number of his boats he realizes that he is in strong business. He charges US $20 to $40 per hour and US $80 to $200 depending on the boat that tourists choose for traveling.
Sock Somphose, an NGO employee, who used to rent Marin’s boat, said it was well prepared and decorated.
Somphose, who has many years of experience as a guide, said that the price of Narin’s boat is affordable and he offers clients new places along the Mekong River to enjoy such as fruit plantations and handicraft sites.
However, he urged Narin to increase the number of boats to meet the demands of millions of tourists visiting Cambodian in the near future. “I think the more boats he has the more profit he will make.”
Thong Khon, minister with the Ministry of Tourism, expects to receive 2 million arrivals by 2010, compared to 2007, when Cambodia welcomed 1.2 million visitors.
Narin said that he could profit from his boats. He said that he had never thought that his business would require expansion.
But a year after a year, Narin has grown increasingly aware that being a boat businessman is a good money making career, whereas before he viewed the business as limited, given the number of tourists in Cambodia. “It is much easier compared to other careers. For instance, the rising price of gasoline does not make me worried because I can pass the increase on to the customer,” he said.
His boats always dock along the Tanle Sap River in front of the Royal Palace where foreigners can spot him easily.
He said that his boats mostly serve foreigners who want to relax and enjoy the fresh air along Mekong, Bassac and Tonle Sap rivers.
“They also enjoy handicrafts at Khmer villages and fruit plantations at Koh Dach,” Narin said. “Some tourists wanted to see for themselves the four rivers merging across from the Royal Palace.”
At around 9 am on a sunny Wednesday August 6 a young, bearded man is looking for clients along the Tonle Sap Riverside near the front of the Royal Palace. Every minute he keeps his eyes on bird. He is thin and attractive with an active patter, ready for any tourist who crosses his path. “Sir! You like boat with fresh air of Mekong.”
Nov Samoun, 26, who is a worker for Narin Tourism Boats, docked near the front of the Royal Palace, said that foreigners liked to travel by boat. Although his boss has a good connection with travel agencies he is still assigned to keep a lookout for foreigners and Cambodians who like to go sightseeing by boat. Samoun said he was there because some tourists need to rent well decorated boats. His boss’s name is Rin Narin.
To become a skillful boat tourism businessman, it took Rin Narin 18 years to gain the appropriate nautical experience. He opened his business in 2000 for local and international tourists in Phnom Penh. Narin realized how to run the tourism boat business when he started with two small boats, serving tourists and gaining recommendations and a reputation for good service.
Narin, 51, was born in Chong Koh village, Khsach Kandal district, Kandal province, where his father used to be a ferryman almost his entire life. He said that before starting the business he gained experience in navigation at Phnom Penh Port.
“It is not so easy to survive in a competitive business atmosphere,” he said. “I take a lot of risks and chances.”
However, Narin said that the 18 years of experience encouraged him to buy a small tourism boat in 2000 when he saw the Cambodian tourism potential. At that time, he remembered that less than one million tourists per year visited Cambodia. However at the same time, tourist agencies requested him to increase the number of his boats. He said that at least three tourist agencies booked his boats when he had only two tourism boats to serve them with.
Besides Narin’s boats, there are also 20 other tourism boats, owned by other five to six businessmen in competition with Narin. However Narin’s business is stronger compared to theirs.
Narin said he could earn up to US $1,000 per month with his four boats. In eight years, he has so far gained assets including four boats worth about US $110,000. According to the number of his boats he realizes that he is in strong business. He charges US $20 to $40 per hour and US $80 to $200 depending on the boat that tourists choose for traveling.
Sock Somphose, an NGO employee, who used to rent Marin’s boat, said it was well prepared and decorated.
Somphose, who has many years of experience as a guide, said that the price of Narin’s boat is affordable and he offers clients new places along the Mekong River to enjoy such as fruit plantations and handicraft sites.
However, he urged Narin to increase the number of boats to meet the demands of millions of tourists visiting Cambodian in the near future. “I think the more boats he has the more profit he will make.”
Thong Khon, minister with the Ministry of Tourism, expects to receive 2 million arrivals by 2010, compared to 2007, when Cambodia welcomed 1.2 million visitors.
Narin said that he could profit from his boats. He said that he had never thought that his business would require expansion.
But a year after a year, Narin has grown increasingly aware that being a boat businessman is a good money making career, whereas before he viewed the business as limited, given the number of tourists in Cambodia. “It is much easier compared to other careers. For instance, the rising price of gasoline does not make me worried because I can pass the increase on to the customer,” he said.
His boats always dock along the Tanle Sap River in front of the Royal Palace where foreigners can spot him easily.
He said that his boats mostly serve foreigners who want to relax and enjoy the fresh air along Mekong, Bassac and Tonle Sap rivers.
“They also enjoy handicrafts at Khmer villages and fruit plantations at Koh Dach,” Narin said. “Some tourists wanted to see for themselves the four rivers merging across from the Royal Palace.”
Several Animal Clinics Start in Phnom Penh
By Soy Sophea
Today at least six animal clinics have been set up in Phnom Penh to serve pet owners whose animals have fallen sick.
Ly Try, owner of Navetco, an animal clinic in Phnom Penh, said his business was thriving after less than a year of operation. Previously, Navetco limited operations to distribution of animal feeds, the decision to diversify coming only two months ago.
His enthusiasm was difficult to hide as he spoke of the profits he was making. “I believe my animal clinic will be successful,” Try said. “Business is good.”
He said each day, he could expect up to six concerned customers who brought their beloved dogs and cats for check-ups and treatment at his clinic.
To run the business, Try needs help from two sons. One of his sons graduated in animal health and the other is studying the same subject. Try has also found cooperation with a partner who provides him with knowledge and consultancy. The partner is Dr. Ith Manoi who graduated with a Master’s Decree in rural development and a Bachelor decree in animal health. Manoi studied animal health in Vietnam for 6 years. Finally, he decided to spend the remainder of his career treating animals in Phnom Penh.
The clinic also sells animal themed souvenirs such as leopard skin t shirts. Despite his diversification into the clinical side of the trade, he still welcomes orders from clients for feed etc.
Sok Sidet, 28, another vet said he started running his business from home in Chamcarmon district, Phnom Penh.two years ago. Sidet said that due to the increase of feeding pets nowadays, he doesn’t worry too much about competition as the market. However, he explained that this segment of the service sector was still fluid, with organizations coming and going, though he did recognize the existence of the newly established Navetco.
Both Sok Sidet and Ly Try ask the same service charge of 5,000 to 7,000 riel for treatment of a pet.
Sen Panha, 23, a resident of Phnom Penh, said that he spent nearly $50 per month on his two pet dogs, including money for vaccines, medicine and food. However, he said that his dogs rarely fall sick as he feeds them on an exclusive diet of fresh beef and milk, but that did not stop him taking the animals for regular check-ups.
“I really like my pet dogs, they are so friendly,” he said. “When I arrive home they’re all over me. Without them, life would be just a little less interesting and I would miss their personalities. I don’t mind spending a little bit every month to ensure their health. They are worth it.”
Today at least six animal clinics have been set up in Phnom Penh to serve pet owners whose animals have fallen sick.
Ly Try, owner of Navetco, an animal clinic in Phnom Penh, said his business was thriving after less than a year of operation. Previously, Navetco limited operations to distribution of animal feeds, the decision to diversify coming only two months ago.
His enthusiasm was difficult to hide as he spoke of the profits he was making. “I believe my animal clinic will be successful,” Try said. “Business is good.”
He said each day, he could expect up to six concerned customers who brought their beloved dogs and cats for check-ups and treatment at his clinic.
To run the business, Try needs help from two sons. One of his sons graduated in animal health and the other is studying the same subject. Try has also found cooperation with a partner who provides him with knowledge and consultancy. The partner is Dr. Ith Manoi who graduated with a Master’s Decree in rural development and a Bachelor decree in animal health. Manoi studied animal health in Vietnam for 6 years. Finally, he decided to spend the remainder of his career treating animals in Phnom Penh.
The clinic also sells animal themed souvenirs such as leopard skin t shirts. Despite his diversification into the clinical side of the trade, he still welcomes orders from clients for feed etc.
Sok Sidet, 28, another vet said he started running his business from home in Chamcarmon district, Phnom Penh.two years ago. Sidet said that due to the increase of feeding pets nowadays, he doesn’t worry too much about competition as the market. However, he explained that this segment of the service sector was still fluid, with organizations coming and going, though he did recognize the existence of the newly established Navetco.
Both Sok Sidet and Ly Try ask the same service charge of 5,000 to 7,000 riel for treatment of a pet.
Sen Panha, 23, a resident of Phnom Penh, said that he spent nearly $50 per month on his two pet dogs, including money for vaccines, medicine and food. However, he said that his dogs rarely fall sick as he feeds them on an exclusive diet of fresh beef and milk, but that did not stop him taking the animals for regular check-ups.
“I really like my pet dogs, they are so friendly,” he said. “When I arrive home they’re all over me. Without them, life would be just a little less interesting and I would miss their personalities. I don’t mind spending a little bit every month to ensure their health. They are worth it.”
Kuwait and Cambodia to Strengthen Diplomatic Ties, Agricultural Cooperation
By Soy Sophea
Cambodia and the oil-rich Middle Eastern nation of Kuwait agreed Monday to strengthen agricultural ties. The result should be a future boom in agricultural production, according to the Cambodian Government Spokesman and Minister for Information, Khieu Kanharith.
The Kuwaiti Prime Minister and his delegation arrived on August 3 for a three-day official visit to Cambodia in response to the Cambodian Premier’s invitation.
“The Kuwaiti Premier said Cambodia has great potential for increased agricultural activity due to good weather conditions and industrious people,” Kanharith, told reporters after a meeting between the Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen and Kuwaiti Prime Minister Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation in Phnom Penh.The Kuwaiti Premier advised Cambodia to increase her rice production and export capacity to match that of Thailand, which exports around eight million tons annually, or Vietnam, which exports around four to five million tons. Cambodia has a competitive advantage over both these nations, being blessed with plentiful supplies of water, land and labor, Kanharith said.
Kuwait may be rich in oil, but her landmass is mostly parched desert unsuitable for farming. In contrast, Cambodia is ideally suited to agricultural production, but only uses around a third of Her agricultural land; furthermore, farming methods remain comparatively primitive and provide low yields. Kanharith therefore predicted a supportive relationship wherein “Kuwait has money, but Cambodia has the fertile land and hardworking people,” he concluded. “Kuwait can make Cambodia a truly powerful, world class agricultural nation in the future.”
The two leaders presided over the signing ceremony in which five agreements were inked, defining economic cooperation, trade policies, investment opportunities, foreign affairs cooperation and civil aviation matters, the Minister told reporters. The general tenor of the meeting was one in which the “Prime Minister [welcomed] private Kuwaiti investment in Cambodia. This has great potential in helping to promote Cambodian economic development.”
Kuwait has not yet disclosed the extent of its agricultural investment, but Khieu Kanharith said Kuwait can either invest directly or as a partner with Cambodian investors.
“Research is being conducted to find the right place for production and export to Kuwait as was the case with Qatar in the past,” the Spokesman said. “We do not allow foreign nationals to buy land. But what we can do as is being done with a number of farmers growing corn and tobacco—we supply the seed and set the purchase price contractually.”
“If the price is high in the future, we will buy the crop from the farmer at the reigning price. If the price drops, we will buy the crop at the minimum price set in the contract. We will also allow farmers to borrow capital possibly without paying interest,” he added.
Prime Minister Hun Sen also requested Kuwait to extend low-interest loans to Cambodia for the development of infrastructure such as roads and irrigation systems, Kanharith said.
He said that Kuwait also wants to open its permanent embassy to Cambodia based in Phnom Penh to strengthen the two nation ties.
Sok Chamroeun, President of Cambodia’s Farmers Association, told the Cambodia Weekly that, his members are happy to hear the good news and he hoped that Kuwait would be able to bring prosperity to Cambodia.
Chamroen, who controls 2,000 hectares of dry farming land along the Mekong delta in Kandal province where high yields of four to five tons of rice per year are produced, said that, “We have farmers and fertile land; I think if we have Kuwaiti investors in our area, the yield will be doubled.”
“Technical assistance, human resources and raw materials are crucial areas of concentration, if a doubling of yields is to be the goal.” he said.
He said that his area alone could produce at least 8,000 tons of rice per year.
“With sufficient investment, proper irrigation systems, good rice seed and scientific growing methods, we can increase our current rice output four to five times,” he added.
Yang Saing Koma, Director of the Cambodian Center for Study and Development in Agriculture (CEDAC), also suggested that to increase the rice yield, besides proper irrigation systems, it is necessary to have good seed as well; but this will be nothing if the farmers are not trained to use this improved raw material in a rational and scientific manner.
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