PHNOM PENH: The Asia-Pacific Regional Director for the International Organization for Migration (IOM), Sarah Lou Arriola, affirmed that the IOM will continue to provide support and assistance to Cambodia to promote effective migrant management.

During a courtesy call to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation on May 2, Arriola met with to Secretary of State for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Luy David. During their meeting she reaffirmed the IOM’s commitment to maintaining a close working relationship with the ministry and promised to continue working closely with all stakeholders in migrant management.

She also wished to see closer cooperation among ASEAN member states, as well as between ASEAN and the Gulf Cooperation Council to combat human trafficking and drug trafficking through border control management.

Sec. Luy David praised the IOM's support for the protection of vulnerable Cambodian migrants and its dedication to capacity building in regards to migrant issues. He commended the IOM for its close cooperation with Cambodian national and local authorities and development partners in providing emergency assistance to migrant workers returning to Cambodia during the Covid-19 pandemic. According to Luy David, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepen cooperation between Cambodia and the IOM.