PHNOM PENH—India and Cambodia signed two Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) on March 24 to support education and solar energy initiatives in Kratie province.

The agreements were signed by Cambodia’s Minister of Information, Neth Pheaktra, and India’s Ambassador to Cambodia, Vanlalvawna Bawitlung, representing the Ministry of External Affairs of the Republic of India.

The initiatives fall under the Quick Impact Project (QIP) program, which aims to improve schooling and energy access in rural areas.

One of the MoUs addresses transportation barriers that contribute to student dropouts by providing bicycles to students in rural areas, encouraging school attendance. The initiative aligns with sustainable development goals related to education, health, and the environment.

The second QIP focuses on solar energy, equipping 60 households and 35 community spots in Snuol Commune, Kratie province, with solar home systems. The project seeks to address electricity shortages, improve living standards, and promote environmental sustainability.

Ambassador Bawitlung emphasized that India’s commitment to Cambodia’s socio-economic development aligns with both nations’ shared vision for inclusive growth.

Under India’s Act East Policy and ASEAN cooperation frameworks, Cambodia remains a key partner. These projects are carried out under the Mekong-Ganga Cooperation (MGC) framework, which prioritizes sectors such as education, healthcare, women’s empowerment, and information technology.

India has supported Cambodia through QIPs since 2015, initially implementing five projects per year. Currently, India provides grant assistance for ten QIPs annually. So far, 61 projects have been initiated in Cambodia, with 42 completed and 19 still in progress.