PHNOM PENH, Cambodia – Cambodia’s connection to the world just got a big boost! Turkish Airlines, Türkiye’s main national airline, launched a brand-new direct route between Istanbul and Phnom Penh on Thursday.

The launch of this flight significantly enhances Cambodia’s presence on the global aviation map.

I. Welcoming the Inaugural Flight

A special welcome ceremony for the first flight was held at the new Techo International Airport. The event was attended by high-ranking officials from both countries, including:

• H.E. Mao Havannall, Minister in-Charge of the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation (SSCA)
• H.E. Huot Hak, Minister of Tourism
• H.E Mrs. Ülkü Kocaefe, Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye to Cambodia
• Mr. Ahmet Bolat, Chairman of Turkish Airlines

II. A Symbol of Growth and Friendship

This new air service will operate three flights per week using a large Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, starting on December 11, 2025.

H.E. Mao Havannall called the new route not only a key achievement for Cambodia’s aviation sector but also a symbol of the growing friendship and cooperation between Cambodia and Türkiye.

“Through the strategic hub of Istanbul, one of the world’s most important gateways linking Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, Cambodia is now more conveniently connected to global markets, business centres, and cultural destinations,” he stated.

This direct connection confirms Cambodia’s expanding role as a dynamic and connected nation in the region and internationally.

III. Growing Air Passenger Numbers

The launch comes as Cambodia’s air travel sector is already showing robust growth. A recent SSCA report showed that Cambodia recorded a total of 5.66 million international air passengers in the first ten months of 2025, which is a significant 14 percent increase compared to the same period last year.

READ MORE:

• Cambodia Launches Three New International Airports Worth $3.6 Billion
• Cambodia’s Aviation Boom: 5.7M Travelers in 10 Months Fuels $3.6B Airport Investment
• Firefly Airlines to Launch Direct Flights from Malaysia to Siem Reap

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PHNOM PENH, Cambodia – Cambodia continues its strong national push to expand clean water access, bolstered by renewed technical and financial support from the French Development Agency (AFD) and Team Europe (European Union).

The long-term commitment was reaffirmed during a key meeting between H.E. Hem Vanndy, Minister of Industry, Science, Technology & Innovation (MISTI), and an AFD delegation led by Mr. Jean-Pierre Marcelli, AFD Southeast Asia Regional Director.

I. Strengthening Infrastructure and Private Operators

MISTI Seeks Innovative Financing for Water Operators

Both sides reviewed ongoing efforts to strengthen public utilities and private water operators (PWOs), expand service coverage across the nation, and secure vital investment for water-supply infrastructure.

Minister Vanndy noted that MISTI currently conducts a nationwide assessment of PWOs and explores innovative financing channels, including non-collateral loans. He formally requested AFD’s additional support, specifically through its private sector financing arm, Proparco, to help PWOs improve service delivery and ensure superior water quality for communities.

II. A 30-Year Partnership and Global Recognition

Cambodia’s Water Sector: A Recognized Achievement

Mr. Marcelli underlined the profound depth of the 30-year partnership between Cambodia, AFD, and the European Union. He praised Cambodia’s water sector, particularly its development in Phnom Penh, calling it a recognized “global success story.”

He also highlighted the ongoing consideration of a new program in Siem Reap under the Livable City Project, showcasing AFD’s continued commitment to urban development.

III. Future Cooperation and Regulatory Standards

Team Europe to Help Establish Modern Water Regulator

Mrs. Sandrine Boucher, AFD Country Director, reaffirmed Team Europe’s continued engagement through the EU Global Gateway initiative. She noted plans for further assistance, including a new multi-tranche framework agreement.

Crucially, the cooperation will also focus on assisting Cambodia in establishing a modern water regulator structured according to international best practices, aiming to institutionalize efficient oversight and sustainability across the sector.

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