Cambodia Vows Mine-Free Future as Global Partners Pledge Support

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Dec. 18, 2025) — Cambodia reaffirmed its commitment to becoming mine-free as international partners pledged continued support for clearance operations during the Project Board Meeting of the Clearing for Results Phase IV (CfRIV), co-chaired by the Cambodian Mine Action Authority (CMAA) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

Senior Minister Dr. Ly Thuch, first vice president of CMAA, said the program’s achievements over the past five years have been critical in reducing risks, restoring safe land, and improving livelihoods in mine-affected communities. Millions of square meters of contaminated land have been cleared, directly contributing to socio-economic development and poverty reduction.

Thuch thanked development partners — including Australia, South Korea (KOICA), New Zealand, Luxembourg, UNDP, and the Royal Government of Cambodia — for their sustained commitment, stressing that international cooperation remains essential to meeting humanitarian and development goals.

The meeting reviewed ongoing challenges, including the need for comprehensive mine data surveys in border provinces, rapid response mechanisms for high-risk areas, and emergency measures linked to border tensions. Cambodia’s third extension request under the Ottawa Convention, unanimously approved by States Parties, was highlighted as a key step to responsibly meet clearance obligations.

Looking ahead, Cambodia is preparing to implement its National Mine Action Policy 2026–2035, which will guide clearance priorities, integrate mine action with development planning, and focus on areas vital to economic and social growth.

Thuch welcomed Italy’s return as a donor for the upcoming Clearing for Results Phase V, calling it a timely reinforcement that will accelerate progress toward national targets. He urged stakeholders to maintain focus on high-impact clearance zones, noting that mine action is not only about removing explosives but also about enabling peace, stability, and sustainable development.

Cambodia aims to realize its vision of a nation free from the impact of explosive ordnance, where communities can live safely and pursue long-term prosperity.