US Seeks Infrastructure Deals in Cambodia

Looking to compete with Chinese influence in the region, the U.S. government is making plans to help American companies win large-scale infrastructure projects in Cambodia, U.S. officials said yesterday in Phnom Penh. The plans, which come as part of a strategic and economic embracing of Asia by the administration of U.S. President Barack Obama, look to challenge China’s near monopoly on big undertakings, such as roads and hydropower dams in the country. “To pivot to Asia…is not only a security focus, it’s an economic focus because in order for us to be successful in the long term, we have to be economically involved in this region,” said Lorain Hariton, U.S. State Department special representative for commercial and business affairs, who spoke to reporters during a round-table meeting at the U.S. Embassy in Phnom Penh. … “We are looking to get some good winds here and work on some deals that will allow us to play a large role in this region.” …

http://www.cambodiadaily.com/business/us-seeks-infrastructure-deals-in-cambodia-7945/