AKP Phnom Penh, February 19, 2026 -- H.E. Dr. Kao Thach, Delegate of the Royal Government in charge as Chief Executive Officer of the Agricultural and Rural Development Bank (ARDB), received here on Feb. 18 a delegation from the Cambodia Microfinance Association (CMA) and representatives of Water.org to discuss potential cooperation aimed at accelerating green financing implementation and promoting financial inclusion in Cambodia.

The meeting focused on the expansion of sustainable financing opportunities, particularly in sectors linked to water access, agriculture and rural development.

Speaking during the discussion, H.E. Dr. Kao Thach highlighted the critical importance of water resources in supporting agricultural productivity and rural livelihoods. 

He noted that sustainable access to water plays a central role in ensuring food security, income generation and climate resilience, particularly for communities vulnerable to climate change impacts.

He further emphasised the strong connection between water resources and green finance, stressing that investment in water infrastructure, sanitation systems and efficient irrigation technologies form essential pillars of sustainable and climate-resilient development.

H.E. Dr. Kao Thach also acknowledged that Water.org’s programmes align closely with ARDB’s long-term strategic priorities, especially through the Cambodia Climate Finance Facility (CCFF). 

The facility, with total funding of US$100 million approved by the Green Climate Fund during its board meeting in Rwanda, is designed to support climate change mitigation and adaptation by providing direct financing for green projects as well as wholesale funding to local financial institutions.

Participants in the meeting discussed several potential areas of cooperation, including the development of a memorandum of understanding, the organisation of a national workshop for CMA members on financial inclusion and green finance, with a particular focus on the CCFF programme, and the exploration of joint projects and collaborative research initiatives.

Both sides agreed to continue discussions to further refine collaboration opportunities aimed at strengthening Cambodia’s green finance ecosystem and expanding access to sustainable financial services.

By Sum Kosal