Synopsis: Pornmoniroth says that the public works and transport sector remains a priority for the Royal Government in driving national development and the economy. The 19.83-kilometre section of National Road No. 23 linking Koh Thom Bridge to Leuk Dek district in Kandal province was officially inaugurated yesterday. The inauguration ceremony was presided over by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance (MEF) Aun Pornmoniroth, Minister of Public Works and Transport (MPWT) Peng Ponea and ADB Country Director for Cambodia Yasmin Siddiqi. Speaking at the event, Pornmoniroth said that the newly inaugurated road is another important achievement for residents of Kandal province and the general public, helping to ease daily travel, reduce travel time, and lower transportation costs. He said that the road is expected to benefit communities in Koh Thom district, Sampeou Poun municipality, and Leuk Daek district, as well as facilitate the movement of all types of goods to domestic markets and other regions. “It will also strengthen trade exchanges between Cambodia and Vietnam through key border checkpoints, including Chrey Thom-Long Binhvia along the National Road 21 and Kaorm Samnor-Vinh Xuong via National Road 14, while enhancing connectivity with other national and provincial roads and major economic hubs,” he said.Pornmoniroth underlined that the public works and transport sector remains a key priority in driving national development and economic growth through improved connectivity and regional integration, supported by concessional financing and grants from development partners, with ADB playing a vital role. Giving an overview of the national economy, Pornmoniroth said, “Despite global uncertainties and external challenges, Cambodia’s economy is projected to grow by around 5.2 percent in 2025 and about 5 percent in 2026. Continued government efforts to improve the business and investment climate have helped sustain strong foreign direct investment inflows, with approved investment projects reaching around $10 billion in 2025, up 45 percent from 2024, while exports rose by over 17 percent year-on-year.”