Oct 212 min read

Environment : Cambodia signs agreement with International Centre for Mangrove Conservation

The Ministry of Environment signed a cooperation agreement with the International Mangrove Center (IMC) in Shenzhen, China, to strengthen cooperation in the restoration of Cambodia's mangrove forests, which cover more than 50,000 hectares in four coastal provinces.

The agreement was signed in mid-October by Srey Sunleang, director-general of the ministry's Department of Protected Areas, and Kong Fanchang, deputy director-general of the Shenzhen-based IMC.

During the signing ceremony, Sunleang emphasized that these forests provide essential ecosystem services to local communities in coastal areas and are popular ecotourism destinations for both domestic and international travelers. Sunleang also welcomed the Chinese delegation who came to study Cambodia's mangrove forests.

Fanchang thanked the ministry for supporting the agreement with IMC, which now has the support of more than 20 countries. He said this underscores the strong friendship between Cambodia and China.

He announced that a formal signing ceremony will be held in Shenzhen on November 5 to officially launch the IMC with the participation of leaders from various countries. Cambodia and Madagascar are key participants as founding members of the Center.

Cambodia's total mangrove forest area is 58,852 hectares, of which Koh Kong province has the largest area at 46,529 hectares. This makes it the province with the most extensive mangrove coverage among Cambodia's coastal regions. Preah Sihanouk province has 9,352 hectares, Kampot has 1,966 hectares and Kep has 1,005 hectares of mangrove forests.

The Fauna & Flora - Cambodia program highlighted the importance of mangroves, noting that they not only protect coastlines from tidal waves and erosion, but also store carbon, helping to mitigate climate change. In addition, she said, they support thousands of marine species, contributing to biodiversity and ecosystem health.