Hanoi Municipal People’s Committee Chairman Nguyen The Thao described the importance Hanoi attaches to helping strengthen the special ties of friendship linking the two States and peoples. Inter-locality ties are a special focus.

In 2004 Hanoi first assisted Phnom Penh with building its namesake road. Now, ten years later, the road has been enlarged and extended. 

Phnom Penh's urbanisation demands more schools and educational institutions. The inauguration of the US$2 million Daun Penh Primary School is scheduled  for October.

Thao said the small gift demonstrates Hanoi’s sentiments towards Phnom Penh and consolidates the traditions of comprehensive cooperation between the two countries.

The ground-breaking ceremony unfolded the day before Prime Minister Nguyen Tam Dung's official Cambodian visit.

PM Dung and his Cambodian counterpart Hun Sen are scheduled to attend the inauguration ceremony of Cho Ray-Phnom Penh Hospital and witness the signing of major investment projects including a planned US$100 million Vinamilk factory.