Phnom Penh, 12 July 2024: On July 11, 2024, Senior Minister Ly Thuch, First Vice President of the Mine Authority, met with Ms. Ilene Cohn, Director of the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) in charge of peacekeeping operations, at the Mine Authority office to discuss ongoing efforts.

During the meeting, Dr. Ly Thuch briefed Ilene Cohn on Cambodia's peace process, which has been significantly shaped by the win-win policy of former Prime Minister Hun Sen. He highlighted the humanitarian demining efforts that have been ongoing since 1992, with support from friendly countries, development partners, and other stakeholders.

Dr. Ly Thuch noted that 2023 marked a milestone in Cambodia's demining efforts, achieving the clearance of 456 square kilometers, a significant success in global mine action. Despite these achievements, many areas in Cambodia remain suspected of containing mines and other explosive remnants. Prime Minister Hun Manet has outlined a clear policy and strategic plan to address these remaining challenges. On behalf of the Royal Government, Senior Minister Ly Thuch requested UNMAS support in developing a national policy to tackle the threat of explosive remnants of war.

As the Chairman and host of the 5th Review Meeting or the Siem Reap-Angkor Summit 2024, Dr. Ly Thuch also requested UNMAS assistance in mobilizing support for the Siem Reap Action Plan and the Siem Reap-Angkor Political Statement, which will be submitted to the United Nations Headquarters in New York in October 2024.

Additionally, as President of the 2024 Ottawa Convention, Dr. Ly Thuch sought UNMAS support for efforts to globalize the Convention, encouraging non-State Parties to become Parties to the Ottawa Convention, and supporting mine action in affected countries in need of demining.

In response, Ilene Cohn accepted Cambodia's requests and pledged continued support for the implementation of the Convention.