Prime Minister Hun Manet addresses the opening of the Pinnacle Entrepreneur Forum: ASEAN Women Entrepreneurs' Network [AWEN] Awards 2024 in Phnom Penh on August 1. STPM
Prime Minister Hun Manet reiterated the government’s commitment to providing access to finance for female entrepreneurs, noting that these women continue to face many challenges, including limited access to funding.
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He said that the government has a long-term vision for the empowerment of women and is fully committed to achieving this vision, adding that Cambodia values all women, respects them and empowers them to reach their full potential.
The prime minister noted that there are brave young women with high ambitions who are confident in their ability to obtain the support and resources needed to turn their dreams into reality. He said that this is a shining example of gender equality and a symbol of hope for the entire ASEAN community.
“To achieve this vision, the government under my leadership will continue to invest in and provide access to finance and mentorship to overcome all obstacles,” Manet said at the opening ceremony of the “Pinnacle Entrepreneur Forum: ASEAN Women Entrepreneurs' Network [AWEN] Awards 2024” in Phnom Penh on August 1.
Manet stated that ASEAN governments, including Cambodia, recognise the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs and understand the crucial role women play in achieving gender equality and economic growth. He stressed that the government has been actively working to overcome these obstacles.
“We must acknowledge that running a business is not easy. Despite their resilience and determination, women entrepreneurs still face many challenges, such as limited access to finance, marketing, business networks and opportunities for growth and development.
“I understand the struggles, desires and great potential of women. I am committed to continuing to support women and to be an advocate, ally and supporter of their cause,” he said.
The prime minister pointed out that the establishment of AWEN and the Cambodian Women Entrepreneurs Network (CamWEN), as well as today’s event, demonstrates the government’s commitment to empowering women both socially and economically.
He explained that through China’s Mekong-Lancang Cooperation (MLC), the Cambodian government has been leading the implementation of regional projects focused on the economic empowerment of women in the digital age.
He added that the government is currently working on a proposal to the Chinese side to set up the Lancang-Mekong Women Entrepreneurship Centre to continue supporting networking, business and women entrepreneurship development in the region.
Addressing the event, AWEN and CamWEN president Eng Lykuong encouraged women to share their dreams, cultivate ideas and knowledge and strengthen women’s empowerment to ensure that all women are protected.
“The road ahead is not easy. There are always other problems and obstacles. This is the time for us to unite to achieve our commitments and reach our full potential,” she said.
