Hun Manet Says Peace Is the Cornerstone of Sustainable Development
Hun Manet Says Peace Is the Cornerstone of Sustainable Development
PHNOM PENH, Sept. 19, 2026 — Prime Minister Hun Manet has reaffirmed Cambodia’s commitment to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), stressing that development must create opportunities for all Cambodians while protecting the environment and strengthening international cooperation.
In a special address to “SDG Moment 2026” on September 18, Hun Manet described the SDGs as a promise that every person in Cambodia should have an equal opportunity to live a better life with dignity and hope.
He said Cambodia’s development journey has evolved from recovery to resilience, with the country seeking to translate development achievements into lasting opportunities for its people.
“SDGs represent a promise,” the Prime Minister said, stressing the importance of turning development progress into meaningful and lasting opportunities for every Cambodian.
Hun Manet highlighted inclusive prosperity as a key pillar of Cambodia’s development vision, saying particular attention must be given to vulnerable groups, including women and girls, persons with disabilities, vulnerable families and rural communities.
Investing in People
The Prime Minister emphasised that investing in people is essential to Cambodia’s long-term development.
He pointed to the importance of quality education and lifelong learning, improved healthcare, social protection and decent employment, saying such investments strengthen families, communities and the country’s future.
He also stressed that development should ensure that no one is left behind, particularly those who face greater social and economic vulnerabilities.
Balancing Growth With Environmental Protection
Hun Manet also called for socio-economic development to advance alongside environmental protection.
He said Cambodia has chosen a sustainable approach to economic growth, including more responsible consumption and production, more efficient use of natural resources, reduction of waste and promotion of sustainable tourism.
The government is also seeking to encourage cleaner and more responsible industrial practices while strengthening efforts to protect forests, biodiversity and ecosystems, according to the Prime Minister.
“No Country Can Achieve the SDGs Alone”
Hun Manet further underscored the importance of partnerships and international cooperation, saying Cambodia recognises that no country can achieve the SDGs alone.
He attributed Cambodia’s development achievements to partnership, solidarity and cooperation, stressing that collective efforts can transform commitments into concrete action and produce positive outcomes for people and the planet.
The Prime Minister also linked sustainable development with peace, saying cooperation and mutual support can build trust and contribute to lasting peace.
“When we work together and support each other, we build deep trust that brings about enduring peace,” he said.
He added: “Let us not forget that peace is the cornerstone of sustainable development.”
The address comes as Cambodia continues to align its national development priorities with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, focusing on inclusive economic growth, human development, social protection, environmental sustainability and stronger partnerships.
Hun Manet’s message at SDG Moment 2026 was that Cambodia’s development should not be measured solely by economic growth, but by whether that progress creates lasting opportunities and a better quality of life for people across the country.
