Phnom Penh: Cambodia has dispatched its second contingent of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit 98 to the Central African Republic as part of a United Nations mission. The group, comprising 98 peacekeepers, including 15 women, departed from Phnom Penh International Airport on Wednesday.

Gen. Sem Sovanny, Director General of the National Centre for Peacekeeping Forces, Mines, and Explosive Remnants of War Clearance (NPMEC), was present to bid farewell to the troops. He expressed his best wishes for their safety and success, emphasizing that their mission represents another proud moment for Cambodia.

This deployment follows the return of the first contingent on February 20, after successfully completing their mission under the UN's guidance in the Central African Republic.

Cambodia's commitment to international peacekeeping efforts is long-standing and significant. Since 2006, the country has contributed a total of 9,563 peacekeepers, including 816 women, to 12 missions across ten countries, including Sudan, South Sudan, Chad, Lebanon, Cyprus, Syria, Mali, Yemen, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, in addition to the Central African Republic.

The continuous involvement of Cambodian peacekeepers in UN missions underscores the country's dedication to maintaining peace and security worldwide. Their valuable skills in explosive ordnance disposal are critical in regions plagued by conflict, ensuring the safety and rehabilitation of war-torn communities.