Cambodia Renews Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Pledge

Phnom Penh, Cambodia – August 13, 2025 – The Royal Government of Cambodia (RGC) reiterated its unwavering commitment to the Ottawa Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines, underscoring its dedication to a mine-free future This commitment was highlighted in a recent statement released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation The statement emphasized Cambodia's significant progress in clearing landmines, a legacy of decades of conflict, and its active participation in international peacekeeping operations The nation's experience with landmines has fueled its commitment to assisting other countries facing similar challenges Cambodia's commitment extends beyond domestic demining efforts The RGC actively participates in UN peacekeeping missions, contributing troops and expertise to regions struggling with armed conflict and instability This involvement reflects Cambodia's desire to play a constructive role in global peace and security, drawing upon its own history of overcoming the devastating effects of landmines The statement specifically cited Cambodia’s contributions to UN peacekeeping operations in several African nations, where the nation's demining expertise is highly valued The timing of this reaffirmation is significant With ongoing global conflicts and the continuing threat of landmines in various regions, Cambodia's commitment serves as a powerful example of a nation transforming its own experiences into a force for global good Experts note that Cambodia's involvement not only provides crucial humanitarian assistance but also contributes to regional stability and international cooperation The nation’s commitment to the Ottawa Convention highlights its dedication to fulfilling international obligations and setting a strong example for other Southeast Asian nations Current SituationThe statement concluded with a renewed call for international cooperation in eliminating landmines worldwide The RGC emphasized the importance of continued financial and technical assistance for demining programs in affected countries, asserting that a collective global effort is crucial for achieving a world free from the threat of anti-personnel mines The statement further stressed the need for stronger international partnerships to address underlying causes of conflict that lead to the proliferation of landmines Cambodia's ongoing efforts, both domestically and internationally, serve as a testament to its commitment to lasting peace and security in the region and the world The continued commitment from Cambodia is particularly relevant within the context of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Many ASEAN member states still face challenges related to landmines, making Cambodia's leadership and experience invaluable to regional cooperation in addressing this humanitarian crisis Cambodia's strong stance serves as a catalyst for enhanced regional discussions and collaborations aimed at advancing humanitarian demining efforts across the Southeast Asian landscape The RGC’s active participation in international fora further strengthens its position as a regional leader in promoting peace and stability The government's ongoing efforts reflect a broader national strategy prioritizing humanitarian assistance and international cooperation, thus underscoring Cambodia's increasingly prominent role on the global stage This commitment is likely to further enhance Cambodia’s diplomatic standing, strengthening its partnerships with international organizations and governments alike The nation’s dedication to humanitarian principles positions it as a crucial player in fostering regional stability and promoting a more peaceful global environment Further initiatives are anticipated from the Cambodian government to sustain these efforts and foster continued international collaboration in this vital area