Phnom Penh, March 28, 2024 - China has allocated a significant grant of US$4.4 million towards a landmine elimination project in Cambodia, benefiting three provinces: Kampong Thom, Siem Reap, and Preah Vihear.

Heng Ratana, Director General of the Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC), expressed deep gratitude towards the Chinese government for their generous financial assistance. This grant marks the second year of a three-year project spanning from March 2023 to February 2026, with a total grant amount of US$13.2 million.

The 2024 phase of the project, extending from March 2024 to February 2025, aims to clear 3,400 hectares of land contaminated by landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXO). Additionally, it plans to conduct surveys on cluster munitions and bombs in 9,000 locations and enhance local capabilities through mine risk education and victim assistance in approximately 300 villages.

This endeavor is expected to benefit around 700,000 individuals. The significance of this project is further highlighted by the recent achievement of Kratie province, which was declared mine-free on March 26, 2024, joining the list of 13 other provinces and the capital, Phnom Penh, in attaining this status.

This initiative not only aims to remove the physical remnants of past conflicts but also seeks to educate and assist those living in affected areas, ensuring safer communities and fostering development in some of Cambodia's most vulnerable regions.