While attending the International Transport Forum (ITF) in Germany, Minister of Public Works and Transport Sun Chanthol briefed the participants on Cambodia’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions in the transport sector through the implementation of an electric bus project and the preparation of several policies.

Chanthol led a ministry delegation to the ITF-2023 Ministerial Meeting on transport Summit, held on May 24-26 in Leipzig, Germany.

He attended the May 24 opening ceremony of the summit, which featured the theme “Transport sector plays a key role in creating economic sustainability, peace and stability in the stage of crisis”, according to a ministry social media post.

It said that on the second day of the summit, the Cambodian delegation attended two important meetings, which brought together development partners, international financial institutions, researchers and the private sector.

Addressing the first meeting of the Council of Ministers of Transport, he described the government’s policies on transport and logistics and the progress it has made. He noted that whether by road, water or rail, Cambodia’s comprehensive transport master plan 2023-2025 are of great importance.

He added that the Kingdom has also made efforts to reduce carbon emissions in the transport sector through the implementation of an E-Bus project in Siem Reap town and encouraging the use of electric vehicles (EVs). Specific policies and guidelines have also been produced to target emissions.

“Thanks to the ITF Summit, the international community has become more aware of our transport and logistics policies, as well as our efforts to reduce carbon emissions,” he said.

ITF secretary-general Young Tae-kim explained that reducing carbon emissions in the transport sector will make cities easier for people to reside and travel in, while improving air quality. They will also make supply chains more efficient and resilient, and provide more options for travellers.

During the summit, each country and development partners shared good experiences, challenges and opportunities to promote green transport.

The event was attended by more than 1,100 participants and over 50 ministers and deputy transport ministers from the 64 ITF member countries, major investment companies, international corporations and financial institutions, as well as UN representatives from European nations and observer countries.