China’s Contribution to Cambodia’s Mine Action Lauded

Phnom Penh, January 05, 2024 --

Cambodia has applauded the Government of China for its active contribution to humanitarian mine action in the Kingdom, enabling safe land for farmers and reducing mine and ERW risks.

H.E. Ly Thuch, Senior Minister and First Vice President of the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA), underscored the acknowledgement in a meeting with H.E. Wang Wentian, Chinese Ambassador to Cambodia, at the Embassy of China in Phnom Penh on Wednesday.

The Royal Government of Cambodia remains deeply committed to ending landmine issue, said the senior minister, calling for more contributions from development partners as well as donors to support Cambodia in realising its 2025 mine-free goal.

On behalf of Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, CMAA President, H.E. Ly Thuch expressed his gratitude to China for its assistance in terms of finance, materials, techniques and capacity building for Cambodia's demining efforts.

In 2023, he pointed out, with the contribution of China, other friendly countries and development partners, Cambodia has achieved its plan to clear up to 356 square kilometres of landmines, the largest area in 30 years.

H.E. Ly Thuch also thanked China for its support to Cambodia’s chairmanship and hosting of the 5th Review Conference of the Mine Ban Convention, named by the Kingdom: Siem Reap-Angkor Summit on a Mine-Free World, scheduled for November 2024.