Cambodian Environment Minister Attends UN Climate Action Event in New York

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Sept.24, 2025) — Environment Minister Eang Sophalleth is leading Cambodia’s delegation to a Special Event on Climate Action during the High-Level Week of the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York, the Ministry of Environment said.

Sophalleth is scheduled to deliver a keynote address on behalf of the Royal Government of Cambodia during the UN’s climate-focused session. He will also speak as a representative of a State Party to the Agreement on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction, known as the BBNJ Agreement, under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

In addition to official meetings, Sophalleth will join multiple discussion forums and hold bilateral talks with leaders from partner nations. The ministry said the visit aims to strengthen environmental cooperation and address the global challenge of climate change.

Cambodia reaffirmed its climate commitments with the submission of its Third Nationally Determined Contribution on Aug. 8, outlining a target to cut greenhouse gas emissions by up to 55% by 2035 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. The plan includes 163 priority actions across mitigation, adaptation and implementation pathways.

On Sept. 6, Cambodia formally ratified the BBNJ Agreement, becoming the 56th country to join among the first 60 signatories required for the treaty to enter into force. The ratification followed the promulgation of the law on Sept. 5 and the submission of Cambodia’s instrument of accession the following day.