Knock on wood: aid donors want Phnom Penh to stop illegal logging

Article Abstract:

Aid donors responded favorably to Cambodia's promises regarding illegal logging and public finances, assuring a continued flow of international funds, though some dissenters predict little real improvement. Such aid makes up half the national budget. Logging has been a persistent problem, removing in 20 years 7 million of the 17 million hectares of rainforest the country once boasted, and the Thai and Cambodian military as well as the Khmer Rouge are all active. The government did win points for its economic management.

Administration of General Economic Programs, Foreign Economic & Financial Assistance, Timber tracts, Standing Timber, Timber Tract Operations, Environmental aspects, International relations, Economic assistance, Foreign economic assistance, Lumber industry

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Laying the foundation

Article Abstract:

Cambodia's steady economic progress pleases most observers and lenders, though per-capita GDP remains only $134 and foreign aid will constitute more than 40% of the government budget for 1996. Inflation is near 4% to 5%, while the economy grows 7.5% to 8% annually, and most external debt has been renegotiated on favorable terms. The chief concerns as of June 1996 are the riel's swings in value, poor domestic revenue collection, and political instability. The US may soon grant it most-favored-nation trading status.

Economic aspects

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New-found generosity; China offers Phnom Penh military aid

Article Abstract:

Two Chinese generals visiting Phnom Penh offered the Cambodian military an unconditional grant of $1 million and officer training. The gesture comes as a surprise in light of China's long support of Khmer Rouge rebels who fought the Cambodian government backed by Vietnam. One Asian diplomat suggested that China's rapprochement with Phnom Penh may be an effort to counter growing Western influence in Southeast Asia.

China, Chinese foreign relations, Military aspects, Southeast Asia, Cambodian foreign relations

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