AKP Phnom Penh, June 10, 2026 --

United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Mrs. Izumi Nakamitsu has praised Cambodia’s expertise and achievements in mine clearance and unexploded ordnance (UXO) removal, highlighting the country’s long-standing commitment to humanitarian demining efforts.

During a meeting with Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet on the afternoon of June 9, on the sidelines of the 3rd ASEAN Future Forum in Hanoi, Viet Nam, Mrs. Nakamitsu commended Cambodia’s strong technical capacity in demining and UXO clearance, stressing that such work requires significant time, resources, and sustained commitment.

She also praised Cambodia’s active contribution to United Nations peacekeeping operations in various countries, noting that the Royal Government’s participation reflects its strong commitment to global peace and its willingness to share valuable field experience with the international community.

The UN official further recalled her own early engagement with Cambodia prior to 1991, when she was involved in efforts to facilitate the repatriation of Cambodian refugees returning to their homeland.

In response, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet expressed appreciation for the United Nations’ valuable contributions to Cambodia’s peace process and socio-economic development.

He also briefed the UN Deputy Secretary-General on Cambodia’s progress in mine and UXO clearance, as well as the successful hosting of the Siem Reap-Angkor Summit on a Mine-Free World under the Ottawa Convention, held in Siem Reap province in late November 2024.

The Prime Minister underscored the devastating legacy of war in Cambodia’s past, stressing that war cannot resolve problems. He reaffirmed that dialogue and the preservation of peace remain the most essential foundations for sustainable development.

Both sides exchanged views on regional and international issues and agreed on the importance of resolving disputes peacefully, in accordance with international law and the United Nations Charter.

Before concluding the meeting, Samdech Thipadei also briefed the UN Deputy Secretary-General on recent developments along the Cambodia-Thailand border, reaffirming Cambodia’s commitment to peacefully resolving border issues based on international law and existing treaties, conventions, and agreements between the two countries.

By C. Nika