Mr. Nhem Sam Oeun, Governor of Ratanakkiri Province, recently highlighted the significant obstacles his northeastern province encounters in attracting both investors and tourists. He emphasized that the considerable distance from the capital, Phnom Penh, acts as a primary deterrent, often leading a substantial number of potential investors to overlook the region.
Despite these geographical challenges, Ratanakkiri holds vast untapped potential, particularly within its fertile agricultural sector and its burgeoning eco-tourism destinations. However, these promising opportunities remain largely underdeveloped due to issues of accessibility and connectivity.
To address this critical barrier, the Provincial Governor has formally called upon the national government to prioritize the construction of a new airport. Governor Nhem Sam Oeun firmly believes that such a crucial infrastructure project is the indispensable key to unlocking the province’s economic growth, drawing in vital investments, boosting tourism, creating much-needed employment opportunities, and ultimately enhancing the livelihoods of its residents.
In a move demonstrating commitment to this development, the government has already designated and frozen a substantial 1,905 hectares of land in Thmey village, Chey Udom commune, Lumphat district, specifically for this airport project. Furthermore, all necessary impact assessments and technical flight studies related to the proposed airport have been successfully completed, indicating concrete progress towards its realization.
Speaking during a visit by journalists to Ratanakkiri on March 13, Governor Nhem Sam Oeun passionately reiterated the urgency of the airport project. He stated, “If the Northeast does not have an airport, we will not attract tourists or investment. Even local investors, whom I deeply respect, often find the distance too challenging. I am absolutely committed to seeing an airport built here, as it is paramount for our future development and prosperity.”
