Cambodia backs Zambia’s presidency of Ottawa mine ban treaty

PHNOM PENH, Jan 13, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia on Monday reaffirmed its commitment to a mine-free world and pledged full support for Zambia’s presidency of the Ottawa Convention banning anti-personnel mines.

Senior Minister Ly Thuch, First Vice-President of the Cambodian Mine Action Authority, held an online meeting with Zambia’s UN envoy in Geneva, Eunice M. Tembo Luambia, who chairs the 23rd Meeting of States Parties to the treaty, alongside the Convention’s Implementation Support Unit.

Speaking on behalf of Prime Minister Hun Manet, Thuch congratulated Zambia on assuming the presidency and voiced confidence in its leadership. He stressed Cambodia’s compliance with the treaty and its contributions to global mine action, calling the Convention a vital humanitarian instrument to protect civilians.

Thuch underlined Cambodia’s commitment to dialogue and cooperation in addressing challenges, and said Phnom Penh would work closely with Zambia to safeguard the credibility and integrity of the treaty.

He reaffirmed Cambodia’s dedication to peace, international law and a mine-free world, pledging full support to ensure the success of Zambia’s presidency.