In Cambodia, a network of infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges, and canals, is reinforcing a strong connection with China. The historical ties between Cambodia and China, dating back to the 13th century, have been further solidified by China’s significant support, particularly in funding rail lines, bridges, a port, and the upcoming $1.7 billion “Funan Techo” canal project. This project aims to create a waterway stretching from the Mekong River to the sea.
The phrase “Where there is water, there are fish. Where there is land, there are Chinese” resonates, underscoring the historical and economic linkages between the two nations. This connection gains renewed importance with the Funan Techo project, set to enhance water transportation and logistics, reduce transportation costs, and strengthen international connections without relying on Vietnam as an intermediary.
However, concerns are emerging from Vietnam’s lower delta, as some fear the impact of the canal on the downstream flow into the environmentally vulnerable Mekong Delta. The ambitious canal project, spanning 160 kilometers with a width of 80-100 meters, is expected to take four years to complete, connecting the Mekong River to the Bassac River and flowing into the Gulf of Thailand.
China Communication Construction’s feasibility study in 2021 has raised concerns among Mekong experts. Brian Eyler, Southeast Asia Program Director at the Stimson Center, warns that the canal project could have detrimental effects on the Mekong Delta, compounding the challenges already faced by Vietnamese farmers dealing with climate change.
Research indicates that upstream hydropower dams in China are disrupting the Mekong river system, affecting fish resources, rice crops, and sediment flow downstream. The canal project, requiring a significant amount of water for trade, raises worries about further depleting the Mekong and Bassac rivers.
The Mekong River Commission (MRC), established by four out of the six Mekong River-sharing countries, aims to ensure sustainable and equitable management of this transboundary water resource. However, national sovereignty challenges hinder the agreement on binding policies for effective river management.
The Xayaburi dam and other large Chinese dams upstream have directly impacted food security in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta, a region vulnerable to sea-level rise. The proposed Funan Techo canal, funded by China, faces skepticism in Vietnam despite assurances that it will not harm the Mekong River.
To address these concerns, a collaborative approach is advocated, urging Cambodia and Vietnam to involve their scientists and engineers in a comprehensive examination of the canal plan. Temporarily setting aside China’s approach could facilitate adherence to the UN Convention on the Law of the Non-navigational Uses of the International Watercourses, providing an opportunity for both nations to safeguard their crucial water resources. The planned canal, tracing the path of an ancient water passage, symbolizes not only connectivity but also a bridge between neighboring countries sharing the river of life.
Informative article indeed.