Two public works officials visit a pavement design company in Australia last week. AUSTRALIAN EMBASSY
Australia invited two high-ranking officials from the Ministry of Public Works and Transport on a study visit to examine Australian best practices on road pavement design.
The five-day visit to Brisbane, Australia took place from October 30 to November 3, and was supported by Australia’s “Partnerships for Infrastructure” programme, according to a November press release by the Australian Embassy in Cambodia.
The release explained that the trip was part of an ongoing collaboration between road transport and traffic agencies in Australia and New Zealand – also known as Austroads – and the ministry. It aims to update Cambodia’s national road and bridge technical standards, and strengthen the Kingdom’s capacity in road pavement design and construction.
“The two officials, ministry secretary of state Yit Bunna and director-general Heng Rathpiseth, underwent a comprehensive programme, which included attending the Australian Flexible Pavements Association International Forum, as well as field visits,” it said.
The release added that the forum, held under the theme “Safely Paving the way to Carbon Zero”, focused on ensuring road pavements are constructed in a sustainable and resilient way, while minimising environmental, climate change and the impact of extreme weather.
The Cambodian delegates were able to connect with road pavement professionals from across the world, including government, industry and academic representatives.
Australian ambassador Justin Whyatt stated in the press release the partnership between Australia and Cambodia recognises that well designed, inclusive and resilient roads are the backbone of economic growth – connecting communities, and fostering trade and development.
“Investing in Cambodia’s road infrastructure design and capacity is a pathway to progress,” he added.
He added that well-designed roads can also better withstand the impact of climate change.
Ministry spokesman Phorn Rim said on November 8 that during the visit, the Cambodian delegation attended an international conference with their counterparts from the Queensland Reconstruction Authority, discussed pavement projects and construction work, and also visited road test sites and road improvement construction sites.
“Road infrastructure development is a key driver of the Kingdom’s trade and economic growth. Australia is investing in our capacity to design road infrastructure to support our needs,” he added.
According to the embassy press release, the Australia and Cambodia sides plan to send additional ministry officials for internships at the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads in Australia on secondment in the future.
