Cambodia Seeks UN Support for Planned Exit from Least Developed Country Status

PHNOM PENH, April 1, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia has called for continued international backing as it prepares to graduate from Least Developed Country (LDC) status by 2029, officials said Wednesday, stressing the need for stronger partnerships to ensure a smooth transition.

Senior Minister Ly Thuch met on March 31 with Rabab Fatima, UN Under Secretary General and High Representative for the Office of the High Representative for LDCs, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States.

The talks, held at the Cambodian Mine Action Authority, focused on Cambodia’s development progress and its roadmap for leaving the LDC category within the next three years.

Ly Thuch, who chairs Cambodia’s National ESCAP Committee, thanked Fatima for attending the recent regional review of the Doha Programme of Action in the Asia Pacific, co organised with the UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific and UN OHRLLS.

He urged continued technical assistance and policy support to help Cambodia sustain growth and resilience after graduation.

Fatima praised Cambodia for hosting the review and acknowledged its development achievements, reaffirming the UN’s commitment to accompany the country through the process.

Officials said Cambodia’s graduation will mark a significant step toward long term economic resilience, but warned the shift also presents challenges as preferential trade terms and international support measures are gradually phased out.

Cambodia is among several countries aiming to move beyond LDC status, a milestone seen as central to sustaining peace, stability and inclusive growth in the years ahead.