The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) on Wednesday congratulated Battambang city in northwest Cambodia for joining the UNESCO Creative Cities Network.

Battambang became the first-ever Cambodian city to join the network on Tuesday -- World Cities Day, the UN agency said in a press statement, adding that Battambang was designated as a creative city of gastronomy.

It is a testimony to Battambang's longstanding efforts and commitment to harnessing culture and creativity for sustainable urban development, UNESCO said.

The UN agency added that the network now covers 350 cities in more than 100 countries, representing seven creative fields, Crafts and Folk Art, Design, Film, Gastronomy, Literature, Media Arts and Music.

Sardar Umar Alam, UNESCO representative to Cambodia, said the inclusion of Battambang as a UNESCO Creative City in the Gastronomy category not only showcases its exceptional cuisine but also leverages gastronomy to enhance local development and global cultural exchange.

"UNESCO congratulates Cambodia on this first-ever achievement," he said. "The recognition of Battambang as a Creative City of Gastronomy is a tribute to the city's cultural assets and will be instrumental in promoting culture and creativity."

He added that it will also enhance the economic growth and tourism income of the communities.

UNESCO said local dishes such as Nem Battambang (soft fish), Prahok Battambang (salted and fermented fish paste), Amok Battambang (steamed fish curry), and Kralan Battambang (sticky rice stuffed in bamboo tube) are among the most popular dishes at the heart of the daily life of people in Battambang.