New Zealand Signals Continued Support for Cambodia’s Mine-Clearance Efforts

GENEVA — New Zealand praised Cambodia’s progress in clearing landmines and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the country’s mine-action program during a bilateral meeting Wednesday in Geneva.

Senior Minister Ly Thuch, first vice president of the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority, met with New Zealand’s permanent representative to the United Nations in Geneva, Ambassador Deborah Mary Geels.

Ly Thuch thanked New Zealand for its longstanding assistance, including contributions to the recently completed Clearing for Results Phase 4 project, which is now entering its fifth phase. He appealed for continued support “until the last landmine is removed from Cambodian soil.”

The minister also raised concerns about tensions along the Thai-Cambodian border, accusing Thailand of making “unfounded allegations” to justify military actions that he said had affected civilians near the frontier.

He described the situation as a breach of the Ottawa Convention, to which both countries are signatories, and said Cambodia remained committed to cooperation and stability.

Geels reaffirmed New Zealand’s backing for Cambodia’s goal of becoming mine-free, calling the country a “global leader” in mine action. She highlighted Cambodia’s role in hosting and chairing the 2024 Review Conference of the Ottawa Convention, saying its work contributes not only to national safety but also to global demining efforts.

Geels expressed sympathy for civilians affected by recent border violence and voiced strong opposition to the use of heavy weaponry in populated areas, saying it posed severe risks and violated humanitarian principles.

She encouraged Cambodia and Thailand to continue dialogue aimed at reducing tensions and improving conditions for border communities.