In a significant move to enhance connectivity and promote travel from Siem Reap to the sea, the Royal Government of Cambodia is championing the development of the Funan Techo Canal. This initiative aims to facilitate smoother transportation for citizens and boost the nation’s economic prospects.

During the inauguration of the Senior Technical Officer of the Senior Technical Officers’ Framework as Head of the Siem Reap Province Department of Public Works and Transport on July 16, 2025, H.E. Peng Po Nea, Minister of Public Works and Transport, articulated the government’s vision for this ambitious project. “We are committed to ensuring that travel from Siem Reap to the sea via the Funan Techo Canal becomes a reality,” he stated, emphasizing that the project is on track for completion.

The Funan Techo Canal, measuring 180 kilometers in length, officially broke ground on August 5, 2024. Spanning four provinces—Kandal, Takeo, Kampot, and Kep—the canal is designed to support vessels weighing up to 3,000 DWT, enhancing trade and tourism capabilities in the region.

H.E. Peng Po Nea further underscored that the development of waterways aligns with the government’s policy to transform Cambodia into a high-income country by 2050. “This initiative reflects our visionary leadership and aims to integrate public works and transportation, connecting urban and rural areas to streamline travel for all citizens,” he added. (Read more)

As Cambodia moves forward with this transformative infrastructure project, the Funan Techo Canal is set to play a vital role in fostering economic growth and improving the quality of life for its citizens.

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By Ian Parker, PA

Marcus Rashford appears to be closing in on his anticipated move to Barcelona after travelling to Catalonia on Sunday evening.

Rashford posted on social media a picture of himself travelling on a private plane, and Spanish media reported that the Manchester United forward had arrived in Catalonia at around 9:30pm local time.

The PA news agency understands a broad agreement is in place following talks between United and Barcelona over a season-long loan that would include an option to buy.

The 27-year-old has not played for his boyhood club since being hauled off in a Europa League match away to Viktoria Plzen on December 12th and ended the season on loan at Aston Villa.

Rashford is among five players to have informed United they wish to explore a future away from Old Trafford, where he came through the academy and scored 138 goals in 426 first-team appearances.

He has been training away from Ruben Amorim’s first-team since pre-season began while seeking a fresh start elsewhere.

In December, the England international admitted he was “ready for a new challenge” and last month revealed he would like to play alongside Barcelona’s teenage prodigy Lamine Yamal.

Barcelona sporting director Deco in May told Catalan radio station RAC1 that the club “like” Rashford, who does not have a squad number at United having lost the 10 shirt to new signing Matheus Cunha.

Cunha is one of two new signings at United this summer, with the club having also added left-back Diego Leon.

Bryan Mbeumo is set to join them at Old Trafford, with the Cameroon forward in the final stages of completing his move after United finally struck a deal with Brentford worth £65million (€75 million) plus up to £6million in add-ons.