U.S. Ambassador William A. Heidt will return from a helicopter flight over the Prey Lang Forest on Monday, April 18, 2016, landing at 12:30 p.m.on the grounds of the Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra Hotel (26 Old August Site, Sothearos Boulevard, Phnom Penh).  Joining Ambassador Heidt on this trip will be Minister of Environment H.E. Dr. Say Samal, Ministry of Interior Secretary of State H.E. Sak Setha, and H.E. Dr. Chheng Kimsun, Director General, Forestry Administration in the Ministry of Agriculture, Forests and Fisheries. Representatives from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) will also participate as part of the Supporting Forests and Biodiversity project implemented by Winrock International.

The purpose of the flight is to raise awareness about deforestation and increase government support for the protection of forests.  Bringing together the Ministry of Environment, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries, and the Ministry of Interior helps demonstrate inter-ministerial cooperation and support for the protection of the Prey Lang forest.

After landing in Phnom Penh, Ambassador Heidt and the Cambodian officials will hold a brief press event.  Members of the media who wish to cover the event should arrive at the Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra Hotel by 12:00 p.m.

For further information, please contact the Public Affairs Section of the U.S. Embassy in Phnom Penh (ChanC@state.gov).