Cambodia signs demining agreement with Norwegian People’s Aid

PHNOM PENH, Jan 28, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia has signed a new agreement with Norwegian People’s Aid (NPA) to strengthen national capacity and ensure the long-term sustainability of its demining efforts.

The National Mine Action Authority and NPA signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Tuesday at the headquarters of the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA).

The deal was formalised by CMAA Secretary-General Ly Panharith and NPA Country Director Hans Peter Risser, under the presidency of Senior Minister Ly Thuch, First Vice-President of the CMAA.

Officials said the MoU provides a framework to improve technical capacity, data coordination and reporting mechanisms as Cambodia moves closer to its goal of becoming mine-free.

Speaking on behalf of Prime Minister Hun Manet, Ly Thuch praised the three-decade partnership with Norway and thanked the Norwegian government and its aid agency Norad for continued support to Cambodia’s peace-building and humanitarian clearance efforts.

He described the agreement as a step towards full national ownership of the demining sector, as the country transitions from large-scale clearance operations to managing residual risks.

“As Cambodia approaches the end of active mine clearance, the priority is ensuring communities remain protected through strong reporting systems and rapid-response capabilities,” he said.

Norwegian People’s Aid has been a key partner in Cambodia since the early 1990s, providing technical expertise in mine and UXO clearance and supporting the country’s transition towards independent management of its landmine legacy.