Say Sam Al: Cambodia will soon end informal settlements and slums

Cambodia will end informal settlements and slums in the near future, Say Sam Al, Deputy Prime Minister of Cambodia, stated during his speech at the Leaders' Summit, held for the first time in the history of the World Urban Forum (WUF) in Baku, Report informs.

According to him, stability began to emerge in Cambodia after achieving national reconciliation: "In the last decade, Cambodia has started to join the ranks of middle‑income countries. This opens new opportunities for us. We are diversifying our economy, creating a skilled workforce, investing in digital infrastructure, improving waste management and public transport, and developing inclusive mortgage mechanisms. In the near future, we will put an end to informal settlements and slums. We are also fighting against drug abuse."

Say Sam Al expressed gratitude to the Government of Azerbaijan and UN‑Habitat for organizing the forum and extending the invitation.

He also emphasized Cambodia's commitment to climate action, despite its small share in global greenhouse gas emissions: "Cambodia was the first country in Asia to approve a carbon neutrality strategy for 2050. We have updated our nationally determined contributions and increased our focus on renewable energy. We look forward to a promising future for the New Cambodia."