Ly Thuch Thanks Norway for $1.2 Million Contribution to Cambodia’s Mine Action Sector

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Oct. 7, 2025) — Deputy Prime Minister Ly Thuch, who also serves as first vice president of the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority, thanked the Kingdom of Norway for its continued support of Cambodia’s mine action efforts.

Thuch expressed his appreciation during a meeting at CMAA headquarters with Astrid Emilie Helle, Norway’s ambassador to Cambodia. Representing Prime Minister Hun Manet, who also serves as president of the mine authority, Thuch acknowledged Norway’s commitment, including a new $1.2 million contribution to support the sector from 2025 to 2027.

He described Norway as a long-standing donor and trusted partner in Cambodia’s humanitarian demining efforts over the past three decades. Norwegian support has bolstered operations, data management, capacity development, research, and Cambodia’s leadership in hosting the 2024 Siem Reap-Angkor Summit on a Mine-Free World under the Ottawa Convention.

Thuch noted that tens of thousands of hectares have been cleared of landmines and explosive remnants of war, crediting development partners, demining operators, and stakeholders. He emphasized Hun Manet’s vision to transform former conflict zones along the Cambodia-Thailand border into areas of peace.

Helle praised Cambodia’s progress and reaffirmed Norway’s support until the country is free from landmine impacts. She expressed sorrow over past border conflicts and hope for lasting