Siem Reap: Even though Cambodia continues to suffer from mines and explosive remnants of war, the Kingdom is committed for a mine free world, said Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet at the opening ceremony of the Siem Reap-Angkor Summit on a Mine-Free World in Siem Reap provincial city this morning.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet, also President of the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA), stated that the summit provides an opportunity to reflect on Cambodia’s progress, address emerging challenges, and ensure the continued success of the Ottawa Convention. The Prime Minister highlighted that, although Cambodia achieved full peace in 1998, landmines continue to pose significant threats to human lives and hinder post-war recovery.
Samdech Thipadei emphasized that Cambodia’s reconstruction has been impeded by landmines, affecting both development and national integration. The presence of landmines has deterred investors and tourists,
while the psychological impact on Cambodians has made it difficult to fully embrace peace and security. To date, Cambodia has destroyed over 1 million anti-personnel mines and cleared more than 3,000 square kilometres of land. Additionally, 15 out of the 25 capital cities and provinces have been declared mine-free, and casualties have significantly decreased from over 4,300 per year in 1996 to fewer than 100 annually in recent years.
However, Cambodia still faces challenges with over 1,600 square kilometres of contaminated land affecting approximately 1 million people. Samdech Thipadei stressed that addressing the impact of mines and promoting victim assistance are crucial components of the country’s sustainable development agenda. Efforts have been intensified to survey and clear landmines, expand education and awareness programs, and strengthen assistance to victims globally.
Cambodian Senior Minister H.E. Ly Thuch, First Vice President of CMAA and President of the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention, rema
rked that the Convention has been a beacon of hope, saving lives and restoring communities over the past 25 years. It has united the world in a shared mission to uphold the dignity of life, demonstrating that even the darkest legacies of war can be overcome when united in peace.
The Convention’s work has not only cleared land but also paved the way for growth, opportunity, and prosperity. It has allowed farmers to return to their fields, children to walk freely to school, and communities to thrive. As Cambodia continues its journey under the leadership of Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet, the country’s commitment to mine action remains steadfast. His dedication ensures that Cambodia remains a global leader in the fight against landmines, demonstrating resilience and progress on the international stage.