Phnom Penh – Following the handover ceremony of assistive devices by China’s Assistive Devices and Technology Center (CADTC), H.E Em Chan Makara, Secretary of State and Secretary-General of the Disability Action Council, engaged in discussions with Mr. HU Guoqiang, Director of the National Assistive Product Work Division of CADTC, and Mr. Lin Ruihua, Adviser to the Chinese Embassy in Cambodia, on the morning of November 24, 2023, at the Ministry of Social Affairs, Veterans and Youth Rehabilitation.

In the meeting, H.E Em Chan Makara highlighted that although the Royal Government has established infrastructure for Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) and the production of assistive devices, the current production capability is insufficient to meet demand. The Cambodian Rehabilitation Center serves around 20,000 people with disabilities annually. With over 700,000 people with disabilities in Cambodia, representing a significant portion of the population.

Expressing optimism, H.E Em Chan Makara conveyed the hope that the Chinese government would consider providing technical assistance to address the pressing needs of people with disabilities in Cambodia. The Royal Government is currently in the process of constructing the National Center for PWDs in Chroy Changva, which is 30% complete. The center encompasses facilities such as a wheelchair factory, an artificial limb factory, a crutch factory, a hospital, and restaurants. Once completed, it will serve as a central hub for PWDs.

In response, Mr. HU Guoqiang expressed interest in the project and committed to discussing the matter with the China Disabled Persons’ Federation. He aims to garner support from the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasizing a dedication to strengthening bilateral relations. Mr. HU Guoqiang stated “In order to enhance and foster the bilateral relations between the two countries, I will exert more efforts,”.

Lin Ruihua, Adviser to the Chinese Embassy in Cambodia, pledged the embassy’s commitment to facilitating and enhancing collaboration between the two countries in the disability sector. Acting as a bridge between Cambodia and China, the embassy will work towards engaging relevant stakeholders and ensuring the success of the project implementation.