Phnom Penh: Cambodia highlights achievements in mine clearance and expresses deep concern over humanitarian impacts caused by border conflict and use of cluster munitions.
At the Peacebuilding Commission meeting on “Mine Action as a Facilitator of Peacebuilding Transitional Justice, Reconciliation and Recovery: Lessons from Cambodia and Colombia” at the United Nations (UN) Headquarters, Mr. Jeong Chansophear, Acting Representative of Cambodia to the UN, highlighted that as a post-conflict country previously threatened by landmines, Cambodia views mine action not only as a humanitarian and security issue, but also as an investment in building and maintaining peace.
The Cambodian representative informed the meeting about Cambodia’s experience and concrete achievements in mine clearance, highlighting the clearance of 3,598 square kilometers of unexploded ordnance. This includes an area of 2,586 square kilometers with remaining anti-personnel mines.
He also highlighted Cambodia’s contribution in sending approximately 10,000 peacekeepers, including demining experts, since 2006 and successfully hosting the “Siem Reap-Angkor Summit on a Mine-Free World”.
While reaffirming Cambodia’s commitment to clear all remaining landmines by 2030 through the implementation of the National Mine Action Policy 2026-2035, HE expressed deep concern over the humanitarian consequences resulting from the recent border conflict and the use of cluster munitions by both sides.
Mr. Yeong Chansophear emphasized that this not only has long-term humanitarian consequences, but also places additional pressure on Cambodia’s assessment, research, clearance and victim relief efforts.
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