Mash Burnedead
Member
Cambodia has started building the $1.7 billion, China-funded Funan Techo canal, connecting Phnom Penh to the sea, despite environmental concerns and potential strain with Vietnam. The 180-km canal aims to cut shipping costs to Sihanoukville and reduce reliance on Vietnamese ports. While the project boosts support for Prime Minister Hun Manet, it also highlights China's significant influence in Cambodia. Environmentalists worry about its impact on the Mekong River, vital for millions. Despite Vietnam's quiet concerns about its rice-growing Mekong Delta, Cambodia insists on proceeding, with Chinese firms playing a major role in construction. 
