China's gift to Angkor Wat

China has given Cambodia US$6 million to help restore a deteriorating temple at the Angkor Wat temple complex.

The agency that oversees the Angkor Archaeological Park said the renovation of the Hindu-style Ta Keo temple would begin early next year and should be completed in eight years.

The temple is deteriorating badly and its walls are at risk of collapse due to natural deterioration, said an agency spokesman.

Ta Keo is a pyramid of five levels, built entirely of sandstone in the late 10th century to early 11th century.

China donated US$2 million in 2000 to help restore Chausay Tevada, a 12th century Hindu temple at the complex.