PHNOM PENH: On May 29, 2024, Deputy Prime Minister Tea Seiha, Minister of National Defense, along with representatives of foreign governments, celebrated United Nations Day for Peacekeepers. The ceremony, held at the ACO Multinational Training School in Kampong Speu Province, paid tribute to the peacekeepers who sacrificed their lives for global peace.
Deputy Prime Minister Tea Seiha highlighted that the commemoration coincided with international celebrations of the United Nations International Day for Peacekeepers. This day marks the 76th anniversary of UN peacekeeping efforts, honoring the military, police, and civilian personnel who have participated in peacekeeping operations. It also pays tribute to the heroes who have sacrificed their lives in the pursuit of peace in conflict-ridden regions since 1948.
In his speech, General Tea Seiha emphasized that the celebration serves as a poignant reminder to the Cambodian people of the value of peace, which has been hard-won given Cambodia's tumultuous history. Despite ongoing challenges due to global crises, Cambodia remains committed to collaborating with the UN and continues to send peacekeepers to fulfill international peacekeeping missions.
Joseph Scheuer, the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Cambodia, acknowledged the sacrifices made by UN peacekeepers, honoring those who lost their lives in service. He stressed the importance of remembering their contributions to global peace.
Since the inception of UN peacekeeping in 1948, over one million men and women have participated in these missions. Tragically, more than 4,374 peacekeepers have lost their lives, including 11 Cambodian peacekeepers. During the United Nations Transitional Authority in Cambodia (UNTAC) mission from 1992 to 1993, approximately 15,000 Blue Helmet troops served in Cambodia, with 82 losing their lives in the pursuit of peace in the country.
This commemoration underscores Cambodia's ongoing dedication to supporting UN peacekeeping efforts and honoring the brave individuals who have made the ultimate sacrifice for global peace and stability.
