UK Minister for the Indo-Pacific Catherine West (centre) visited the Techo International Airport today, as she begins her visit to Cambodia. UK embassy
UK Minister for the Indo-Pacific Catherine West visited the Techo International Airport in Kandal province today, April 22, as part of her efforts to advance shared interests and boost cooperation with Cambodia.
West is in Cambodia this week to strengthen ties between the two nations and promote economic growth, climate resilience and security cooperation.
According to the British embassy in Cambodia, the UK and Cambodia are collaborating to advance climate initiatives and promote sustainable development.
This includes at the new airport, which was designed by British firm Foster + Partners. The embassy described British architecture as gaining international recognition for its innovative approach to green airport design.
“My visit to Techo International Airport today is testament to the modern UK-Cambodia partnership. Innovative and green infrastructure fit for Cambodia’s future, designed by British business – an achievement that would have been unimaginable thirty years ago,” said West.
“Our relationship goes far beyond just this one building – but we bring the same partnership approach to everything we do, whether increasing trade to create jobs, protect our climate and nature, or increase access to education,” she added.
UK ambassador Dominic Williams (left) and minister West (centre) also met with foreign minister Prak Sokhonn. Foreign ministry
Foster + Partners associate partner Krzysztof Szymanski also shared his thoughts about the new airport, which is scheduled to begin operations in July.
“We are incredibly proud and deeply honoured to lead the design of Techo International Airport, a project that aspires to be one of the greenest airports in the world. This airport offers a transformative vision for Phnom Penh, drawing deeply from Cambodia’s rich heritage and responding thoughtfully to its tropical climate. By integrating the latest technology with local craftsmanship, we are committed to creating sustainable and efficient infrastructure,” he said.
“This project not only creates a new gateway to the city and the country, enhancing Cambodia’s reputation on the global stage, but also sets a new benchmark for sustainable airport design. It is a privilege to contribute to such a significant endeavour that will shape the future of Cambodia’s capital,” he continued.
During her visit, West will meet with Prak Sokhonn, Cambodian Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and senior officials from Cambodia’s Ministry of Economy and Finance and the Council for the Development of Cambodia. Their discussions will cover expanding trade opportunities, advancing climate initiatives, promoting sustainable development and enhancing regional security.
“Minister West is going to sign a memorandum of understanding with the finance ministry on strategic infrastructure development, demonstrating our commitment to partner to boost mutual economic growth, including support for the development of a Green Special Economic Zone. Initiatives such as the Trade Partnerships programme and the Developing Countries Trading Scheme are also key to deepening ties and growth opportunities,” noted the embassy.
“She will meet the British Chamber of Commerce in Cambodia to discuss how UK businesses are taking advantage of these policies to expand cooperation with Cambodian partners in key sectors including education, infrastructure and financial services,” it added.
West will also use her time in the Kingdom to discuss shared security concerns, including combating serious organised crime and human trafficking, addressing online fraud and scam centres, and future defence cooperation initiatives.
