ទៅកាន់ប្រភពព័ត៌មាន

(Phnom Penh): The 2024 National Conference on Labor Economics, themed “Economic and Labor Recovery and the Journey Toward Graduation from the Least Developed Countries Category,” was officially opened on the morning of Wednesday, December 11, 2024, presided over by H.E. Heng Sour, Minister of Labor and Vocational Training.

The national conference, held at the Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra Hotel from December 11–12, 2024, was organized by the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training in collaboration with various development partners. These partners include the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the International Labour Organization (ILO), the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), the Textile, Apparel, Footwear & Travel Goods Association in Cambodia (TAFTAC), the Cambodia-Japan Association (KIBO), and other international partners.

H.E. Heng Sour stated that the Royal Government of Cambodia has set 2029 as the year for Cambodia to graduate from the status of a Least Developed Country (LDC). Furthermore, this graduation presents an opportunity to diversify industries in collaboration with relevant domestic and international partners, while also serving as an opening for other industries to consider establishing operations in Cambodia. The Minister stated that the Royal Government of Cambodia is currently working with relevant partners and all ministries and institutions to develop a joint action plan. This initiative aims to ensure that by 2029—when Cambodia graduates from the status of a Least Developed Country (LDC)—the necessary conditions are in place to avoid falling into any development traps. This will enable the nation to move forward vigorously, further expanding its industries and the national economy.

Furthermore, the Minister expressed confidence that this national conference will provide four key inputs:

1. Bringing together experts in the fields of labor, social security, and vocational training from various institutions to share perspectives and offer recommendations for boosting the momentum of Cambodia’s labor market following its graduation from LDC status.
2. Sharing insights and best practices regarding technical and vocational skills training, involving representatives from the private sector, policymakers, and researchers.
3. Promote discussion and provide strategic input to ensure that Cambodia’s workforce meets the demands of the digital age and the context of evolving economic and social conditions.
4. Foster partnerships and innovation that support the transformation of the economy and the labor market.