Wednesday, 14 May 2008

Oh! Phnom Penh

By PromMukbuon

Phnom Penh, the Capital City of Cambodia. Some important places and monuments in Phnom Penh:

WATT PHNOM A small hill crowned by an active wat (pagoda) marks the legendary founding place of the Phnom Penh. The hill is the site of constant activity, with a steady stream of the faithful trekking to the vihear, shrines and fortune tellers on top, and a constellation of vendors, visitors and motodups at the bottom. Elephant rides available. The legend of the founding of Wat Phnom is tied to the beginnings of Phnom Penh. Legend has it that in 1372 Lady Penh (Yea Penh) fished a floating Koki tree out of the river. Inside the tree were four Buddha statues. She built a hill ('phnom' means 'hill') and a small temple (wat) at what is now the site of what is now known as Wat Phnom. Later, the surrounding area became known after the hill (Phnom) and its creator (Penh), hence 'Phnom Penh.' The current temple was last rebuilt in 1926. The large stupa contains the remains of King Ponhea Yat (1405-1467) who moved the Khmer capital from Angkor to Phnom Penh in 1422. Look for the altar of Lady Penh between the large stupa and the vihear. She is said to be of particular help to women

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NATIONAL MUSEUM The distinctive rust-red National Museum next to the Royal Palace was dedicated by King Sisowath in 1920. Over 5000 objects are on display including Angkorian era statues, lingas and other artifacts, most notably the legendary statue of the 'Leper King.' Though the emphasis is on Angkorian artifacts, there is also a good collection of pieces from later periods, including a special exhibition of post-Angkorian Buddha figures. Visiting the museum after rather than before a trip to the Angkor Archaeological Park in Siem Reap helps lend context to the Angkorian artifacts. Multi-lingual tour guides are available. Souvenirs and books available. Photography is limited. The museum borders Street 178, aka 'Artist's Street' which is lined with local art galleries and souvenir shops. The Reyum Gallery on Street 178 is of particular note, exhibiting the works of contemporary Cambodian artists

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INDEPENDENCE MONUMENT (At the intersection of Norodom and Sihanouk) The Independence Monument (Vimean Ekareach) was inaugurated in November 9, 1962 to celebrate Cambodia's independence from foreign rule. Renowned Cambodian architect, Vann Molyvann was the architect of the monument. The Independence Monument now also serves as a monument to Cambodia's war dead. It is the site of colorful celebrations and services on holidays such as Independence Day and Constitution Day.

The Mekong Times : In Khmer and English Language

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sacravatoons : " Free & Fair Election in Scambodia "

Courtesy of Sacravatoon at http://sacrava.blogspot.com/

Vietnam a hub for processing Asia's illegally logged timber

Daily India.com

Washington, May 14: A new study has determined that Vietnam has become a hub for processing Asia's illegally logged timber, much of which is being sold in the country as outdoor furniture.

According to a report in National Geographic News, the Mekong region, which includes Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Laos, Burma, and China, has some of the most valuable and vulnerable tree species sought by the international timber trade, including rosewood, keruing, teak, and yellow balau.

"One of the biggest shifts in the timber industry in Asia over the last decade or so has been the emergence of a huge wood-processing industry in China and Vietnam," said Julian Newman, head of the EIA's forest campaign program.

In a report released in March, the UK-based nonprofit Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA) and its Indonesian partner Telapak have already warned that the illegal timber trade is threatening some of the last intact forests in Southeast Asia, especially in Laos.

EIA estimates that the illegal logging business, which the agency says is orchestrated by cross-border criminal syndicates working with corrupt officials, costs developing countries some 10 billion to 15 billion US dollars a year.

Around 60 percent of the trade in tropical timber moves between the countries of southern and eastern Asia, according to EIA.

"Despite wide awareness of the problem of illegal logging and a series of political commitments to tackle the issue, demand for cut-price wood products is still fuelling the illegal destruction of some of the world's most significant remaining tropical forests," said Newman.

A rise in timber prices has prompted some wood-producing countries, such as Indonesia, to clamp down on illegal logging.

Other countries, such as China and Vietnam, have taken measures to sharply reduce all logging of their own forests, while importing timber from neighboring countries for their growing timber-processing industries.

Though it is currently legal in the United States to import illegally sourced wood products, but legislation now under consideration in the US Congress would ban imports of wood products derived from illegally harvested timber.

Vietnam a hub for processing Asia's illegally logged timber

Daily India.com

Washington, May 14: A new study has determined that Vietnam has become a hub for processing Asia's illegally logged timber, much of which is being sold in the country as outdoor furniture.

According to a report in National Geographic News, the Mekong region, which includes Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Laos, Burma, and China, has some of the most valuable and vulnerable tree species sought by the international timber trade, including rosewood, keruing, teak, and yellow balau.

"One of the biggest shifts in the timber industry in Asia over the last decade or so has been the emergence of a huge wood-processing industry in China and Vietnam," said Julian Newman, head of the EIA's forest campaign program.

In a report released in March, the UK-based nonprofit Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA) and its Indonesian partner Telapak have already warned that the illegal timber trade is threatening some of the last intact forests in Southeast Asia, especially in Laos.

EIA estimates that the illegal logging business, which the agency says is orchestrated by cross-border criminal syndicates working with corrupt officials, costs developing countries some 10 billion to 15 billion US dollars a year.

Around 60 percent of the trade in tropical timber moves between the countries of southern and eastern Asia, according to EIA.

"Despite wide awareness of the problem of illegal logging and a series of political commitments to tackle the issue, demand for cut-price wood products is still fuelling the illegal destruction of some of the world's most significant remaining tropical forests," said Newman.

A rise in timber prices has prompted some wood-producing countries, such as Indonesia, to clamp down on illegal logging.

Other countries, such as China and Vietnam, have taken measures to sharply reduce all logging of their own forests, while importing timber from neighboring countries for their growing timber-processing industries.

Though it is currently legal in the United States to import illegally sourced wood products, but legislation now under consideration in the US Congress would ban imports of wood products derived from illegally harvested timber.

Cambodian dogs latest victims of global food crisis

Asia-Pacific News
May 14, 2008

Phnom Penh - Dognappings are sharply up in some areas of Cambodia as people seek alternative sources of protein and the prices of more conventional meats continue to rise, dog owners and police said Wednesday.

Military police officer Ra Dy, who lives on the outskirts of the capital, said he personally had lost three dogs in quick succession and had decided to stop keeping any more until things settled down.

'If you check on them every hour, they might still be there, but if you forget and leave them for two hours, they are gone,' he said.

Khieu Viriya, 22, a dog fancier from the western suburb of Toul Tom Poung, said he has also lost three dogs recently to thieves.

'And the story is the same for the neighbours, too. It is terrible to lose a dog, because they are like family, but even worse when you know they are to be eaten,' he said.

Traditionally most Cambodians have refused to eat dog, viewing it as an unclean meat, although in 2003 the capital's mayor urged citizens to consume more to keep the stray dog population down.

Dog is sold in some restaurants, including high-end Korean establishments, and has become increasingly popular as a drinking snack amongst the country's avid rice wine fans as an energy food.

Dy said organized bands of dog thieves had begun cruising the city, snaring dogs with wire nooses and speeding off on motorbikes.

Vendors said although dog, sometimes euphemistically sold as 'special meat,' remains inexpensive, like pork and other meats it has nearly doubled in value in recent months.

Other exotic meats such as rat have also nearly doubled in price, but with the rice harvest still months away, the rodents are out of season, pushing up the demand for dog and other alternatives.

Nominations Sent to the Senate

For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
May 13, 2008

John R. Beyrle, of Michigan, a Career Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Class of Minister-Counselor, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Russian Federation.

Rosemary Anne DiCarlo, of the District of Columbia, a Career Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Class of Minister-Counselor, to be Alternate Representative of the United States of America for Special Political Affairs in the United Nations, with the rank of Ambassador.

Rosemary Anne DiCarlo, of the District of Columbia, a Career Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Class of Minister-Counselor, to be an Alternate Representative of the United States of America to the Sessions of the General Assembly of the United Nations during her tenure of service as Alternate Representative of the United States of America for Special Political Affairs in the United Nations.

Carol Ann Rodley, of Virginia, a Career Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Class of Minister-Counselor, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Kingdom of Cambodia.

The Preah Vihear saga

May 14, 2008
Courtesy of Cambodia: Details are Sketchy

Thailand continues to act like a petulant teenager over Preah Vihear.

Thailand may ask Unesco to again postpone its decision on the registration of the ancient ruins at Preah Vihear as a World Heritage site this year if it is unable to convince Cambodia to settle the land dispute through joint management, Foreign Minister Noppadon Pattama said yesterday.

[...]

Cambodian Commerce Minister Cham Prasidh criticised the move by Thailand to link the Preah Vihear issue to the overlapping areas for offshore oil exploration.

”If we solve the Preah Vihear case, then we also solve the overlapping zone offshore. They’re completely different things, the minister told the Cambodia Daily newspaper.

There’s really no other way to put it: linking Preah Vihear negotiations to overlapping oilfield claims is blackmail. That Unesco is playing along in such pedantic Thai games is shameful. Preah Vihear temple belongs unquestionably to Cambodia. The listing of Preah Vihear as a World Heritage Site, too, belongs unquestionably to Cambodia. Thailand has zero to do with it.

But Cambodia need not wait at the mercy of an irrational and arrogant Thailand. If there’s anything that Hun Sen’s CPP-lead government does well, it’s play the game of global politics like an Ouk Chaktrung board: the Japanese and their bloodlust for killing whales, the Americans and their murderous War on Terror, the Chinese and their One China policy, those insane monsters in Myanmar — Cambodia unflinchingly supported them all.

It’s time to call in the markers. With an A-list of heavy political hitters behind it, Cambodia should easily be able to quash Thai opposition to the listing of Preah Vihear as a World Heritage Site. Without the listing, Preah Vihear is likely to remain an obscure destination. With it, Preah Vihear would skyrocket in importance as a tourist destination, rivaling Angkor Wat virtually overnight.

That’s why Thailand wants so badly to be at the table. There’s a ton of money at stake, and the odds that Thailand will see a dime of it grow slimmer every day. Their continued interference in Cambodia’s Unesco request all but guarantees it.

More foreign gov'ts, leaders offer condolences to China over deadly quake

A student helps his schoolmate stranded in the ruins of a high school in the earthquake-affected Beichuan County, southwest China’s Sichuan Province, on May 13, 2008.


Locals shed tears in the earthquake-affected Beichuan County, southwest China’s Sichuan Province, on May 13, 2008.


Relief soldiers carry out a wounded student from the ruins of a high school in the earthquake-affected Beichuan County, southwest China’s Sichuan Province, on May 13, 2008.
May 13, 2008

More foreign governments and leaders Tuesday sent messages to Chinese President Hu Jintao and Premier Wen Jiabao, or issued statements, to express their deep condolences over the massive earthquake in southwestern China and show their support to the Chinese government and people for their arduous efforts in disaster relief.

Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni and former king Norodom Sihanouk expressed their condolences to the people in the disaster areas, saying they believed the Chinese people, under the leadership of the Communist Party of China and the Chinese government, would overcome the natural disaster and rebuild their damaged homes.

Sihanouk personally sent aid worth 50,000 U.S. dollars to the quake-hit areas via the Chinese embassy to Cambodia.

Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said the Chinese government has swiftly carried out disaster relief work, and expressed his belief that China can overcome the disaster.

The Singaporean government is willing to provide any possible aid to China, he added.

Tunisian President Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali said that upon this sorrowful time he expressed the most sincere condolences to the victims' families and the Chinese people.

Chilean President Michelle Bachelet said the unity of the Chinese society and the organizational capacity of the Chinese government are the two trumps that will enable China to overcome the difficulties, adding that the Chilean government and people firmly support the Chinese government and people in their disaster relief efforts.

Dutch Prime Minister Jan Peter Balkenende and Foreign Minister Maxime Verhagen extended their condolences over those killed and expressed their solicitude to the people in the disaster zones, saying their country is willing to provide aid.

In a statement, Slovenia, which holds the rotating European Union (EU) presidency, expressed its deep condolences over the huge damages and casualties caused by the quake, and its deep sympathy to those who lost their families and also to the injured.

Spain's government led by Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero expressed "its deepest sorrow" to China for its thousands of deceased and victims caused by the earthquake.

The Spanish embassy in China said Spain is willing to provide necessary assistance to China. British Foreign Secretary David Miliband expressed his condolences Monday night over the heavy loss of life in the strong earthquake.

He said the Chinese government is commended for its quick and efficient response, adding Britain would be ready to provide assistance.

Greek Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis expressed her condolences to the government and people of China for the victims of Monday's earthquake.

She said that the Greek government is willing to provide necessary support to China.

Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd said he had written to Chinese Premier Wen to offer expert help and express Australia's sympathy in the wake of the earthquake.

Rudd added that Australia stood ready to offer assistance to help in the aftermath of the disaster.

Australian Foreign Minister Stephen Smith also expressed condolences on behalf of all Australians to those affected by the terrible earthquake in Sichuan province.

New Zealand acting Prime Minister Michael Cullen extended New Zealand's sympathy and condolences to China over the deadly earthquake.

"China has immense capability of its own but New Zealand stands ready to assist in an appropriate way if we are asked," he added.

Canada offered condolences to China over the heavy life and property losses in the devastating earthquake, said a joint statement issued by Canadian Foreign Minister Maxime Bernier and Beverley Oda, Minister of International Cooperation.

"We are greatly saddened by the news that thousands lost their lives and that hundreds of children who were at school at the time are trapped in the debris," the statement said.

"Canada stands ready to help should China request any assistance in its humanitarian relief efforts," the statement said.

The EU ambassador to China Serge Abou, Saudi Arabian Ambassador Yahya Bin Abdul-Kareem Al-Zaid, Cape Verde's Ambassador Julio Cesar Freire De Morais and the Czech Republic's embassy in China also extended their condolences and sympathy to the country over the quake.

A 7.8-magnitude quake rocked Wenchuan county, 159 km northwest of the southwest Sichuan province's capital of Chengdu, at 14:28 (0628 GMT) Monday, killing thousands of people in eight affected provinces.

Source: Xinhua

EU to send delegation to watch parliamentary election of Cambodia

2008/05/14
From: Mathaba

From Sept. 8, 2007 to April 22, 2008, the National Election Committee (NEC) of Cambodia has accredited 8,342 observers, including 2,938 females and 42 international ones, to supervise the process of the 4th National Assembly election.

PHNOM PENH, May 13 (Xinhua) -- The European Union (EU) is planning to send a 120-member delegation to Cambodia to help supervise its parliamentary election on July 27, Chinese-language newspaper the Jianhua Daily said on Tuesday.

This will be the third election-supervising delegation coming from the EU to the kingdom, if the plan is approved by both sides, the paper quoted EU's resident officials as saying.

The delegation, together with about 8,400 national and international observers, will watch the election process and try to make it safe and democratic, the officials said.

From Sept. 8, 2007 to April 22, 2008, the National Election Committee (NEC) of Cambodia has accredited 8,342 observers, including 2,938 females and 42 international ones, to supervise the process of the 4th National Assembly election.

So far on Monday, 12 out of the country's 57 political parties have officially registered for the election.

They will compete for the 123 seats in the Cambodian National Assembly.

In the 2003 general election, the ruling Cambodian People's Party led by Prime Minister Hun Sen won 73 seats, the co-ruling Funcinpec Party 26 seats, and the major opposition Sam Rainsy Party 24 seats.  

Cambodia: Build Bright Get First Win

Build Bright University FC scored their first win in the Cambodian Premier League 2008 when they overcame Intry Kraham Post FC 2-0 at the National Olympic Stadium.

Goal.com
13/05/2008

Prom Puthisith was quick to strike the first goal as early as the second minute before Intry shored up their defence to deny Build Bright a bigger lead at the break.

But five minutes to the end, Olisaemeka made sure of the three points for Build Bright with the second goal for their first three points of the season.

Build Bright started their campaign this year on the wrong footing when they stumbled to a 3-2 loss to Phuchung Neak FC.

In the meantime, Khemara Keila FC nailed their second win of the season with a close 2-1 win over Phuchung Neak FC.

But it was Phuchung Neak who made the score sheet first when Hok So Chovorn grabbed an 11th minute lead to give Khemara some anxious moments.

The early goal in the second half off Tunjia Yoyinka (46th minute) proved pivotal as Ratha then completed the win for Khemara with the winning strike on 72nd minute.

King Sihamoni to give alms

Cambodian king to visit Preah Vihear province for his birthday

DPA and BANGKOK POST
Wednesday May 14, 2008

Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni will give alms to the poor at a site close to the controversial Preah Vihear temple on the Thai border during his three-day birthday celebrations, officials said yesterday.

His trip comes amid the dispute between Thailand and Cambodia over the latter's proposed registration of the ancient temple as a Unesco World Heritage site.

Thailand fears it will have to give up 4.6 sq km around the temple if it is listed on behalf of Cambodia only.

The royal birthday celebration for the king, who ascended to the throne in 2004 after the abdication of his father, Norodom Sihanouk, began yesterday and will continue until tomorrow.

The king traditionally conducts Buddhist rites at his palace in the capital, but had chosen to fly by helicopter to an area close to Preah Vihear temple, perched on the border, officials said.

Cambodia is also mulling the idea of introducing a national holiday on June 15 to mark the 1962 anniversary of the International Court in The Hague deciding that the temple, which is sacred to both Cambodians and Thais, lies within Cambodian territory.

Border demarcations, both around Preah Vihear and in disputed coastal waters, remain a sensitive issue for both nations.

Thai Foreign Minister Noppadon Pattama said on a radio programme yesterday that the Thai side has included the coastal border in negotiations about Preah Vihear with Cambodia. The dispute over the temple could be ended only if both countries reached agreement on the overlapping coastal territory first, he said.

Cambodia Draws Interest of Jim Rogers, Private Equity (Update1)

Jim Rogers, co-founder of the Quantum Fund with George Soros, speaks during a news conference in Singapore, May 8, 2008. Photographer: Charles Pertwee/Bloomberg News

Bloomberg News
By Netty Ismail

May 14 (Bloomberg) -- Private-equity investors are venturing into Cambodia, as the nation that three decades ago abolished money under the Khmer Rouge seeks more than $6 billion to rebuild itself.

Leopard Capital and Cambodia Investment & Development Fund are among those planning to put more than $450 million in the second-poorest of 10 Southeast Asian nations. Cambodia Investment is getting advice from Jim Rogers, who predicted the start of the commodities boom in 1999, and Marc Faber, who forecast Asian assets would decline before the regional financial crisis in 1997.

``It's a country that's changed a lot and investors are finally waking up to that,'' said Douglas Clayton, founder of Leopard Capital, who is based in Phnom Penh and is seeking to raise $100 million. ``Most people have an outdated perception of Cambodia; clearly the country has made significant progress.''

Prime Minister Hun Sen is relying on the country's oil and mineral resources to attract foreign investments and reduce Cambodia's dependence on clothing exports and tourism for growth as he prepares for an election in July. The funds will move money into banks, office buildings, luxury hotels, ports and other projects.

``Cambodia does have a lot of natural resources, it does have an ambitious population, and it does have some assets,'' said Singapore-based Rogers, who co-founded the Quantum hedge fund with George Soros during the 1970s, and is now chairman of Rogers Holdings. ``Most countries that come out of something like they have are inclined to be pretty safe for a while because they're trying to get money in.''

Economic Growth

Leopard Capital's first planned investment, a housing project in Siem Reap, probably will generate a return of more than 60 percent a year, about three times the internal target for private-equity investments, said Clayton, who moved to Phnom Penh from Bangkok last June.

Clayton was a hedge fund manager at Knight Asia Group and head of CLSA Securities in Thailand before setting up Leopard Capital in 2007. Faber, publisher of the Gloom, Boom & Doom report, is a director at Leopard Capital.

Peter Brimble and Bradley Gordon, Clayton's former partners at Leopard Capital, are starting the $100 million Cambodia Emerald fund this year to invest in tourism, agriculture, financial institutions, infrastructure and real estate.

The fund plans to close at least one deal before the end of the year, said Brimble, who's based in Phnom Penh. LR Global Partners in New York and London-based Kazimir Partners are investors in Cambodia Emerald, he said.

`Growth Era'

Cambodia's economy expanded 9.6 percent in 2007, after growing by at least 10 percent during the previous three years, according to data compiled by the World Bank. About a third of the population live on less than 50 cents a day and 90 percent are in rural areas.

``Cambodia's in the beginning of a growth era,'' said Julien Kinic, investment officer at Proparco, the private financing arm of the French Development Agency in Paris. ``It's like Bangkok 20 years ago or Ho Chi Minh City 10 years ago,'' he said, adding that Proparco plans to invest in one of the funds.

More than $6 billion may be invested in Cambodia in the next three years mainly in oil and natural gas, infrastructure projects, real-estate development and agriculture, according to Cambodia Investment, which is run by Frontier Investment & Development Partners. Melbourne-based BHP Billiton Ltd., the world's largest miner, is among companies vying for exploration rights for iron ore, gold and other minerals.

`Seriously Lacking'

``Cambodia is seriously lacking in human and investment capital,'' said Marvin Yeo, co-founder of Frontier Investment, who will oversee the fund from Phnom Penh and Bangkok.

Yeo left his job as a financing specialist at the Manila- based Asian Development Bank this month to set up the fund, which plans to invest as much as $100 million in hospitality, telecommunications, infrastructure, banks and agriculture in the next three months.

The nation has pitfalls, according to Transparency International, a private monitoring agency based in Berlin, which ranked Cambodia 162nd of 179 countries in its annual report on perceptions of corruption last year. Cambodia also doesn't have a stock exchange, though one is planned to open in 2009.

July Elections

The funds will need to compensate investors for the risks, said Kelvin Chan, a Singapore-based senior vice president at Partners Group, a manager of private equity and hedge funds. Private-equity investors in Asia made a return of about 67.5 percent last year, according to the Centre for Asia Private Equity Research in Hong Kong.

``Cambodia is too early for most investors,'' said Chan, who declined invitations to invest in the funds. ``Political stability, the rules and regulations must be in place.''

Cambodia has a non-investment grade rating of B+ from Standard & Poor's, two levels below neighboring Vietnam.

``I don't believe private equity will take off rapidly in Cambodia until there are very strong indications that private equity is a bankable model in Vietnam, which holds the key to investors' confidence in the Indochina region,'' said Kathleen Ng, managing director at the Centre for Asia Private Equity Research in Hong Kong.

The government will continue its ``market-oriented reforms'' after general elections in July, S&P said in an April 4 report. The ruling Cambodian People's Party and the main opposition Sam Rainsy Party are ``committed to the same pro-business, pro-growth policy platform,'' according to Cambodia Investment.

Tourism Seen as Uneven, Not Yet an Election Issue

By Win Thida, VOA Khmer
Phnom Penh
13 May 2008

Khmer audio aired May 13 (1.37MB) - Download (MP3) Khmer audio aired May 13 (1.37MB) - Listen (MP3)

[Editor's note: In the weeks leading into national polls, VOA Khmer will explore a wide number of election issues. The "Election Issues 2008" series will air stories on Tuesday and Wednesday, followed by a related "Hello VOA" guest on Thursday. This is the first in a two-part series examining the tourism boom.]

Cambodia’s tourism industry has seen an 18 percent jump since last year. More than 2 million people visited in 2007, bringing in more than $1 billion and creating as many as 250,000 jobs.

But the benefits are not balanced, and not even some families living close to Angkor Wat are reaping the rewards. It remains an open question how one boon to the economy will play out in July’s national election.

“Most tourism runs to Siem Reap, but not to other provinces,” said Pat Sambo, president of the Association of Tourist Services. “This means that the distribution of revenue from the tourism sector is not equal for everyone.”

Tourism is the second-leading industry in the country, behind garment exports, and a great bulk of it is supported by the Angkor temples.

Yet only 20 percent of the people in Siem Reap, at most, earn any money from toursim, Pat Sambo said.

“Even though some people live near the tourist sight, they don’t have any skills, so they cannot get any benefit,” said Koy Sang, director of Siem Reap’s department for the Ministry of Tourism.

With the benefit of tourism unequally spread, the Cambodian government must do more to prepare other destinations, and direct tourists there, said Moeung Son, president of the Eurasia Travel Agency.

But the need for more tourism development does not seem to be a political issue yet. No parties have put much tourism into their pre-campaign rhetoric, many voters saying they are concerned with inflation over voting.

Meanwhile, observers say with the swift growth of the industry, the number of people who work directly in the tourism industry may even be less inclined to vote, as they are preoccupied earning money each day.

Czech Republic Cancels Cambodian Debt

By Chun Sakada, VOA Khmer
Phnom Penh
13 May 2008

Khmer audio aired May 13 (1.24MB) - Download (MP3)
Khmer audio aired May 13 (1.24MB) - Listen (MP3)

Cambodia will be excused a debt of more than $3 million it ran up during the Cold War of the 1980s, Czech Republic officials said Tuesday.

The debt was canceled at a singing ceremony Monday, officials said. The debt was a holdover from the former communist Czechoslovakia, Czech Deputy Finance Minister Toma Zibek told a press conference Tuesday.

“After half a year of communication between our officials and experts from the Cambodian Ministry of Finance, we agreed on this amount of money and we’ve solved it,” he said. “We have told the Cambodian government it does not need to pay this money back to our country.” Cambodia owed the money for the purchase of arms and other supplies for its domestic needs.

The Czech cancellation would also come with a package for development projects for energy, the environment, health care and education, Finance Minister Keat Chhon said.

Cambodia remains in debt to other countries. It owes the US about $339 million from the government of Lon Nol. It owes Russia $1.5 billion, though it has asked for the cancellation of that debt as well.

The International Monetary Fund, meanwhile, has canceled $82 million in debt, claiming that Cambodia had maintained poverty reduction strategies, public administration and control of public spending.

Former CPP Activist Killed: Rights Group

By Heng Reaksmey, VOA Khmer
Phnom Penh
13 May 2008

Khmer audio aired May 13 (1.01MB) - Download (MP3)
Khmer audio aired May 13 (1.01MB) - Listen (MP3)

A former activist who defected from the Cambodian People’s Party this year was killed in Takeo province on Thursday, a rights group said, while six suspects were out on bail Tuesday.

Chhoung Soam, who had joined the Human Rights Party ahead of the elections, was found dead 2 kilometers from his home Ta O village, said In Kong Chhit, an investigator for the Cambodian Center for Human Rights. Commune police official Hing Sovannarith confirmed there had been a killing, but he denied it was politically charged. Police had arrested six men, but they were currently out on bail, he said.

Saom Horn, son of the victim, said his father had had a heated exchange with a former provincial police chief the day before his death. He appealed to authorities to investigate further.

Human Rights Party President Kem Sokha said he was suspicious of the murder because police seemed to be hiding information.

Chhoung Soam’s death brings to three the total number of party activists murdered in the past two months, In Kong Chhit said.

For Cambodians, McCain a Familiar Face

By Sok Khemara, VOA Khmer
Original report from Washington
13 May 2008

Khmer audio aired May 13 (3.35MB) - Download (MP3)
Khmer audio aired May 13 (3.35MB) - Listen (MP3)

Arizona senator John McCain is no stranger to Cambodians. But will they know him as president? His reputation and experience have earned the senator a lot of attention from American voters, and many are convinced he will be next in the White House.

“Don’t tell me we cannot make our country stronger and the world safer,” he said recently, having secured the nomination of the Republican party to run for president. “We can. We must. And when I am president, we will.”

McCain’s messages of democracy hit home for many, and Cambodians remember his strong stance against the regime of Prime Minister Hun Sen.

Opposition leader Sam Rainsy called McCain a good man, and said he could push for the FBI to release a report on the 1997 grenade attack on opposition supporters, a report that has been mired in secrecy.

McCain was also likely to push for human rights, Sam Rainsy said.

“Mr. John McCain is a candidate who understands well the democratic process in Cambodia and always supports democrats in Cambodia,” Sam Rainsy said. “I understand that if Mr. John McCain becomes president, the US really will pay more attention to Cambodia than ever.”

Cambodians recognize him above the other two candidates, senators Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama, said Nhiek Bun Chhay, Funcinpec’s secretary-general.

“He knows Cambodia very well and has a good connection with Cambodian leaders,” Nhiek Bun Chhay said.

Cambodian People’s Party lawmaker Cheam Yiep applauded McCain’s reputation and said he was the most likely to help people in Southeast Asia.

Chanly Kuch, a Cambodian voter in Maryland, said McCain may know about Cambodia, but he has not shown yet how his policies differ from the current president, George W. Bush.

Dr. Samuel Nuon, a Cambodian voter in Virginia, called McCain a hero of the nation.

“I believe he will continue to help protect Cambodian freedom,” Nuon said. “Frankly speaking,” said Koul Panha, executive director of the Committee for Free and Fair Elections, “in foreign policy, in intervening to help countries achieve democracy, freedom, to get out of dictatorships and communism, he has done a lot.”

Preah Vihear Temple Bound for Heritage Status: Expert

By Sok Khemara, VOA Khmer
Washington
13 May 2008

Khmer audio aired May 12 (6.69MB) - Download (MP3)
Khmer audio aired May 12 (6.69MB) - Listen (MP3)

Even a dispute with Thailand on border overlap areas will not stop Preah Vihear temple from gaining protection as a Unesco World Heritage site, an expert said Monday.

“Preah Vihear will be on the World Heritage list, and disputes of the overlapping area will continue to be resolved between Cambodia and Thailand,” said Ros Chantrabot, vice president of the Royal Academy of Cambodia. “We should make a distinction and should not confuse” the two issues.

Both Thailand and Cambodia claim territory around the temple, which perches on a clifftop on a disputed border area.

“Many Thais still claim that Preah Vihear belongs to Thailand,” Ros Chantrabot said. “But we have to find a way to tell them that Preah Vihear is the heritage of the Khmer.”

World courts have overruled Thai claims to the temple, he said. Meanwhile, discussions over the borders continue.

National Election Committee Makes Final Announcement: Twelve Parties Have Registered for 2008 Election

Posted on 14 May 2008.
The Mirror, Vol. 12, No. 560

Sam Rainsy Accused the Cambodian People’s Party of Buying Its People

Cambodian People’s Party High-Ranking Official Said Sam Rainsy Should Check Himself Again
“Phnom Penh: The National Election Committee [NEC] announced on 12 May, the deadline for the registration of parties and candidates, that only twelve parties had registered and sent their candidates’ names for the parliamentary election, which will be held in more than two months.

“Only the political parties that submitted their candidates’ lists to the NEC by the afternoon of 12 May 2008 can join the election on 27 July 2008, after the NEC has checked the accuracy of the lists submitted.

“in the 2003 parliamentary election, there were 23 parties participating.

“The NEC stated that the twelve parties that had submitted their candidates’ name lists to the NEC are the Cambodian People’s Party, Funcinpec, the Human Rights Party, the League for Democracy Party, the Sangkum Yutethor Party (the Just Society Party), the Hang Dara Democratic Movement Party, the Sangkum Khmer Niyum Party, the Norodom Ranariddh Party, the Sam Rainsy Party, the Khmer Anti-Poverty Party, the Khmer Democratic Party, and the Khmer Republican Party.

“The NEC member Mr. Mao Sophearith said that so far, the NEC has officially recognized the Cambodian People’s Party, Funcinpec, and the Hang Dara Democratic Movement Party. As for the Sangkum Khmer Niyum [also called Khmer United People Party], its registration was rejected; as for the other parties, the NEC is checking their documents.

“Mr. Mao Sophearith also said that the parties that have candidates to stand in all the 24 provinces and towns countrywide are the Cambodian People’s Party [CPP], Funcinpec, the Norodom Ranariddh Party, the Human Rights Party, the Hang Dara Democratic Movement Party, the League for Democracy Party, the Khmer Republican Party, and the Khmer Democracy Party. As for the Sangkum Yutethor Party, it has candidates from nine provinces and towns, and the Khmer Anti-Poverty Party has candidates from seven provinces and towns.

“The NEC secretary-general Mr. Tep Nitha said that the number of parties declined because some parties face financial problems, or they have not prepared enough candidates.

“While the NEC stopped accepting the the registration of political parties and their candidates’ lists, the Sam Rainsy Party [SRP] continues to suffer from the defection of some of its officials.

“The parliamentary candidate of the SRP from Battambang, listen on the third position, decided to resign from the SRP to join the CPP on 11 May, causing the SRP some difficulties to send its candidates’ name list to the NEC on the day of deadline, 12 May 2008.

“Samdech Akkak Moha Senapadei Dekchor Hun Sen, the Prime Minister of the Royal Government of Cambodia, said the parliamentary candidate Mr. Uong Kosal of the SRP from Battambang, who had been listed on the third position, joined the CPP and he, Hun Sen, hopes that there will be more such defections, though the candidates’ name list had already been sent to the NEC.

“Samdech Dekchor continued that if anybody comes, we must accept them, because Samdech had announced already that they are accepted until the election day, except for two kinds of people – prisoners and criminals.

“Mr. Sam Rainsy accused the CPP of buying people and votes.

“The opposition party president, Mr. Sam Rainsy, said in a press conference on the morning of 12 May 2008 that the CPP buys people and votes only from the SRP, as for the other parties, the CPP never attracts their members.

“In that press conference, Mr. Sam Rainsy presented seven witnesses who, he claimed, had beeb invited by the CPP to join, but they refused.

“Mr. Sam Rainsy continued that in these invitations mentioned above, they use money, giving positions, and promises to help them to find jobs. Another way is the use of threats by not guaranteeing the invited people safety and peace if they do not join. The witnesses that appeared publicly on that day are not afraid of such threats and they announce publicly that there were attempts of buying their loyalty.

“Mr. Sam Rainsy went on to say that the CPP broadcasts the names of a small number of those who have defected on television, to denigrate the SRP and to deceive the citizens’ eyes, so that they should not believe the SRP. Those who changed to the CPP are a group of people who hunger for power and who are corrupt.

“As for the CPP’s senior official Mr. Cheam Yeap, he reacted, ‘I absolutely disagree with this.

The Cambodian Peoples’ Party has no money to buy anyone and does not consider them as chickens or ducks.’ He added, ‘I want Mr. Sam Rainsy to check himself again to know the reasons why his people leave him. What has he done?’ He used a comparison saying that if the water is cold, there will be many fish and they will not change their place. He said that nepotism and the focus on money can be the reasons why they left.”

Rasmei Kampuchea, Vol.16, #4587, 13.5.2008

Long Beach students take a broader perspective

Students speak of their journeys and global citizenship in Cambodia trip.

Daily 49er
Ericka Franklin
Issue date: 5/12/08

Students, faculty and staff came together to hear about the journey of "Becoming Global Citizens" in Cal State Long Beach's University Theatre Wednesday.

Art department professor Carlos Silveira organized a social justice community service project that placed American students in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, a place that had a lifestyle the students were not used to.

One student participant, Jenna Robinson, mentioned how she realized that the faucets didn't work with ease as they do in America, and "you prayed you didn't have to go to the bathroom."

The students, however, said they gained a sense of appreciation for every simple thing taken for granted in America. The main idea of the trip was to develop more international understanding.

Cambodia was an ideal location because there is a local college that speaks English.

"We could have our students pairing up with students from Pannasastra University and they would work on several developing projects for local children," Silveira said.

"We all became more aware. We really felt like global citizens," Robinson said. "You have a first-hand experience to be with people when you think of National Geographic, and I know that sounds really funny, but you're not looking at it on the news."

One student, Amanda Manderas, became emotional and expressed feeling a sense of attachment to her group during her work in Cambodia.

"It was a life-changing experience. The joy that they got from us being there really changed my perspective on art," Manderas said.

Manderas displayed photos of students' artwork. One piece was a collage of students displaying symbols of peace with their bodies.

"To see the students recognize themselves as artists did it for me. After a year of living there, it made me really proud of my students," Manderas said.

Student works will be displayed next fall in the student art galleries on campus.

PM to visit Myanmar to coordinate on assistance

Source: Royal Thai Goverment
Date: 13 May 2008

Foreign Affairs Minister Noppadon Pattama reports that Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej will visit Myanmar tomorrow to coordinate assistance between Myanmar, which has been hard hit by the deadly cyclone, Nargis and the international communities.

The minister says the premier’s trip in China will take place from May 15th – 17th as scheduled as the government of China did not contact Thailand to postpone or cancel the visit.

As for the 7.8-Richter earthquake in China yesterday, the minister says all Thai people in China are safe and the ministry can now contact them.

Mr Noppadon says he will discuss the issue of Khao Phra Viharn National Park with Cambodia during his trip to Cambodia tomorrow. He also affirms Thailand will not exchange the overlapping area of the park with energy benefits from Cambodia.

More foreign gov'ts, leaders offer condolences to China over deadly quake

www.chinaview.cn
2008-05-13

Special report: Strong Earthquake Jolts SW China

BEIJING, May 13 (Xinhua) -- More foreign governments and leaders Tuesday sent messages to Chinese President Hu Jintao and Premier Wen Jiabao, or issued statements, to express their deep condolences over the massive earthquake in southwestern China and show their support to the Chinese government and people for their arduous efforts in disaster relief.

Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni and former king Norodom Sihanouk expressed their condolences to the people in the disaster areas, saying they believed the Chinese people, under the leadership of the Communist Party of China and the Chinese government, would overcome the natural disaster and rebuild their damaged homes.

Sihanouk personally sent aid worth 50,000 U.S. dollars to the quake-hit areas via the Chinese embassy to Cambodia.

Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said the Chinese government has swiftly carried out disaster relief work, and expressed his belief that China can overcome the disaster. The Singaporean government is willing to provide any possible aid to China, he added.

Tunisian President Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali said that upon this sorrowful time he expressed the most sincere condolences to the victims' families and the Chinese people.

Chilean President Michelle Bachelet said the unity of the Chinese society and the organizational capacity of the Chinese government are the two trumps that will enable China to overcome the difficulties, adding that the Chilean government and people firmly support the Chinese government and people in their disaster relief efforts.

Dutch Prime Minister Jan Peter Balkenende and Foreign Minister Maxime Verhagen extended their condolences over those killed and expressed their solicitude to the people in the disaster zones, saying their country is willing to provide aid.

In a statement, Slovenia, which holds the rotating European Union (EU) presidency, expressed its deep condolences over the huge damages and casualties caused by the quake, and its deep sympathy to those who lost their families and also to the injured.

Spain's government led by Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero expressed "its deepest sorrow" to China for its thousands of deceased and victims caused by the earthquake. The Spanish embassy in China said Spain is willing to provide necessary assistance to China.

British Foreign Secretary David Miliband expressed his condolences Monday night over the heavy loss of life in the strong earthquake.

He said the Chinese government is commended for its quick and efficient response, adding Britain would be ready to provide assistance.

Greek Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis expressed her condolences to the government and people of China for the victims of Monday's earthquake. She said that the Greek government is willing to provide necessary support to China.

Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd said he had written to Chinese Premier Wen to offer expert help and express Australia's sympathy in the wake of the earthquake. Rudd added that Australia stood ready to offer assistance to help in the aftermath of the disaster.

Australian Foreign Minister Stephen Smith also expressed condolences on behalf of all Australians to those affected by the terrible earthquake in Sichuan province.

New Zealand acting Prime Minister Michael Cullen extended New Zealand's sympathy and condolences to China over the deadly earthquake.

"China has immense capability of its own but New Zealand stands ready to assist in an appropriate way if we are asked," he added.

Canada offered condolences to China over the heavy life and property losses in the devastating earthquake, said a joint statement issued by Canadian Foreign Minister Maxime Bernier and Beverley Oda, Minister of International Cooperation.

"We are greatly saddened by the news that thousands lost their lives and that hundreds of children who were at school at the time are trapped in the debris," the statement said.

"Canada stands ready to help should China request any assistance in its humanitarian relief efforts," the statement said.

The EU ambassador to China Serge Abou, Saudi Arabian Ambassador Yahya Bin Abdul-Kareem Al-Zaid, Cape Verde's Ambassador Julio Cesar Freire De Morais and the Czech Republic's embassy in China also extended their condolences and sympathy to the country over the quake.

A 7.8-magnitude quake rocked Wenchuan county, 159 km northwest of the southwest Sichuan province's capital of Chengdu, at 14:28 (0628 GMT) Monday, killing thousands of people in eight affected provinces.

Editor: Sun Yunlong

Aussie prison death sparks concern


Officials found Bart Lauwaert "dead on the floor" in his cell May 2. Lauwaert's death has renewed calls for the transfer out of Cambodia of New Zealander Graham Cleghorn, who was convicted of raping several of his maids in 2004.

Courtesy of Phnom Penh Post at http://www.phnompenhpost.com
Written by Peter Olszewski
Tuesday the 13th of May 2008

An Australian man serving a 20-year sentence for child sex offenses was found dead earlier this month in his Siem Reap jail cell, sparking further controversy over the imprisonment of another foreigner who supporters say risks dying in Cambodian custody.

Bart “Lucky” Lauwaert, a former English teacher, died May 3 of an apparent stroke, police say.

"He didn't commit suicide. We just found him dead on the floor," prosecutor Bou Bun Ham told AFP at the time.

Lauwaert, 41, had been in prison since 2003, when he was convicted of raping his nine young maids amid a spate of sex crime arrests following investigations by the Cambodian Women’s Crisis Center (CWCC), a local advocacy group.

Lauwaert’s death has renewed calls for the transfer out of Cambodia of New Zealander Graham Cleghorn, who was convicted of raping several of his maids in 2004 following another controversial CWCC probe.

Both Lauwaert and Cleghorn claimed they had been set up by the CWCC, saying the organization had promised the plaintiffs money for their testimony – a charge the CWCC has repeatedly denied.

But at the time of Cleghorn’s arrest, several of his Cambodian neighbours had also petitioned Cambodia’s king, saying that the CWCC has attempted to coerce and bribe them into making false allegations against foreigner men.

Calling the Cambodian prison system a “hellhole,” Cleghorn’s supporters in New Zealand released a statement shortly after Lauwaert’s death dismissing his trial and demanding that he serve his sentence at home.

“There is an urgent need to return Graham Cleghorn home to New Zealand,” they said.“A Cambodian jail is a life-threatening experience.

It has proved to be fatal for a 41 year old Australian. Graham is aged over 60.

His health has deteriorated significantly since he was first arrested in October 2003,” the added.

Cleghorn’s case has remained headline news in New Zealand since his trial, and concerns over the proceedings were so acute that the New Zealand government sent an ambassador from Thailand on a special diplomatic mission to help get Cleghorn a second appeal.

Royal family of Cambodia supports China's quake-relief works

www.chinaview.cn
2008-05-13

PHNOM PENH, May 13 (Xinhua) -- A deputy of the royal family of Cambodia on Tuesday presented 50,000 U.S. dollars and two letters of sympathy to the Chinese Embassy to express the family's support for China to carry out relief works in the earthquake-affected areas.

King Norodom Sihamoni and king's father Norodom Sihanouk respectively wrote letters to Chinese President Hu Jintao and Premier Wen Jiabao to express their sympathy for the victims and their families, as well as their support for the Chinese government to salvage the survivors, said a press release from the embassy.

Meanwhile, Sihanouk donated 50,000 U.S. dollars for China to beef up its relief works, it said.

Chinese Ambassador Zhang Jinfeng expressed deep gratitude to the royal family and informed the deputy about the current situation in the disaster-affected region.

A 7.8-magnitude quake rocked Wenchuan county, 159 km northwest of the southwest Sichuan province's capital of Chengdu, at 14:28 (0628 GMT) on Monday, killing thousands of people in eight affected provinces.

Editor: Mu Xuequan