PHNOM PENH: Prime Minister Hun Sen has said that the Paris Peace Agreement of 1991 and the presence of the United Nations Transitional Authority in Cambodia (UNTAC) in 1993, helped pave the way for peace in Cambodia but did not stop the war completely. The Prime Minister made this statement on the occasion of the International Day of Peace on Wednesday, 21 September 2022.

He added that it was under the initiative and launch of his ‘win-win’ policy that Cambodia was able to achieve complete peace in 1998.

Nevertheless, the Prime Minister extended his congratulations to the international community in celebration of the International Day of Peace, which takes place every year on 21 September, and this year has the theme "End racism. Build Peace.” with a focus on strengthening international solidarity, and maintaining and promoting peace, stability, and prosperity for all mankind.

The Prime Minister’s message added that Cambodia's participation in the celebration of the International Day of Peace is to highlight the noble meaning of peace, as well as to reflect on the strong will of the Cambodian people to protect and participate in world peace.

He also said that Cambodia, as the 2022 ASEAN Chair, has been leading the association through major challenges under the theme, "ASEAN A.C.T: Addressing Challenges Together.”

On the other hand, Cambodia has also been actively participating in UN peacekeeping operations. Between 2006 to 2022, the Royal Government sent a total of 8,302 peacekeeping troop members (including 580 women) to carry out missions in nine different countries, including Chad, Sudan, South Sudan, the Central African Republic, Lebanon, Cyprus, Syria, Mali, and Yemen.

Finally, Prime Minister Hun Sen said he is confident that participating in this year's International Day of Peace celebrations will demonstrate the will and commitment of the Royal Government and the people of Cambodia to promote the value of peace, cooperation, and mutual respect, regardless of race, color, or religion.