PREAH Sihanouk Provincial Hall signed an agreement in cooperation with Royal Group and Sinohydro Co Ltd yesterday to build a 70km road on Koh Rong island.

Provincial governor Kuoch Chamroeun signed the agreement with Kith Meng, chairman of the board of directors of the Royal Group, to construct the road in the Koh Rong Development Area on the island.

The road is set to be completed within 16 months at a cost of $35 million.

Chamroeun said he welcomed the private company investment as it will provide infrastructure and improve travel for locals and tourists visiting Koh Rong.

“We are developing infrastructure across the province, both on the islands and on the mainland,” he said.

He added the companies have also helped build a hotel, other roads and will help develop facilities on Koh Rong, including electricity and water supply.

Meng thanked all relevant institutions for their contribution.

“The infrastructure we are building will lead to more activity, providing stimulus to the country’s economy,” he said.

“There have been some land disputes. However, I urge the people to understand that the state supports the development of the island,” he said.

He said the company has begun construction of the 70km road and in the future, there are plans to build ports, power plants and airports.

Meanwhile, provincial authorities are set to complete work on 34 roads within the province at a cost of $294 million.