AKP Phnom Penh, October 9, 2026 -- Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet commended national efforts on Friday after the country was ranked first in ASEAN and 17th globally for ecotourism by US News & World Report.

In an official directive issued through the Council of Ministers on Oct. 8, the Prime Minister praised the joint initiatives that secured the top regional spot in the prestigious US outlet’s latest global rankings.

Environment Minister H.E. Dr. Eang Sophalleth described the milestone as a proud historic moment for the Southeast Asian nation.

"This is a fresh point of pride for every Cambodian and the entire nation on the international stage," H.E. Dr. Sophalleth said, noting the accolade follows Cambodia’s earlier top ranking in 2026 for environmental quality, land sustainability, and natural resources by the same publication.

The Minister credited the nation’s ecological trajectory to the political stability and conservation policies built under former Prime Minister and current Senate President Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, while highlighting the current administration's active green agenda.

Under Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet, Cambodia has intensified its focus on green economic policies, biodiversity preservation, and sustainable community development – expanding eco-tourism hubs to boost local livelihoods while safeguarding protected areas.

By K. Rithy Reak