Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen presided over a groundbreaking ceremony on Wednesday for the country's second expressway.

The 135-kilometer road will link the capital, Phnom Penh, to the southern city of Bavet. Total construction costs for the China-led project come to 1.35 billion dollars.

Hun Sen said the expressway will contribute greatly to Cambodia's social and economic development, and to the countries taking part in the construction. The Chinese ambassador also attended the ceremony.

As Cambodia's economy continues to expand, China has taken a leading role in development projects.

In November last year, the country's first expressway was completed. China was the main investor.