Yan Zhiming, an engineer from Zhanjiang, was recently awarded an International Friendly Cooperation Medal by Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Hun Sen for his contribution to the construction of the Cambodia-China Sen Sok Friendship Overpass.

Yan, 31, is a native of Leizhou Peninsula. He was hired by Shanghai Construction Group Co Ltd and sent to work in Cambodia after graduating from Changsha University of Science & Technology in June 2010.

Over the past eight years, Yan has taken part in multiple road construction projects there, including National Highways No 6, 6A and 59. Construction of the Cambodia-China Sen Sok Friendship Overpass got underway in August 2016, with Yan appointed as the head of the project.

Yan Zhiming talks with his team at the construction site. [Photo/Zhanjiang Evening News]

The demolition work was complicated, as there were intricate cables in the sky, buried pipelines and concentrated houses and stores above ground. Yan discussed the problems with his team and adjusted their construction plans over and over again in accordance with the actual situation.

Hun Sen spoke highly of the construction team at the inaugural ceremony of the flyover on July 2, as they had overcome numerous difficulties and finished construction ahead of schedule. The medal was presented to Yan in recognition of their work.

An aerial shot of the Cambodia-China Sen Sok Friendship Overpass. [Photo/Zhanjiang Evening News]

The flyover, which is 16.5 meters wide and 942 meters long, is so far the longest of its kind in Phnom Penh, capital of Cambodia. It cost $17 million, which was a concessional loan provided by the Chinese government.

According to Yan, he will next take charge of the 3rd ring road in Phnom Penh. With an investment of $268 million, the project is one of the biggest Cambodian engineering projects funded by China and will begin construction by year's end.

Yan hopes that he can lead the team to another success, increase international recognition of Chinese construction, and contribute to the long-term friendship between China and Cambodia.