Japan Launches New Cambodia Mine Clearance Project After $17m Phase Completion

PHNOM PENH, May 18, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia and Japan have launched a new phase of a mine clearance and victim assistance programme following the completion of a previous project worth more than US$17 million, officials said Monday.

The handover ceremony for Phase II of the Project for Integrated Mine Clearance and Landmine Victim Assistance, along with the launch of Phase III, was held May 18 at the CMAC Morodok Techo Development Center in Battambang province.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn, representing Prime Minister Hun Manet, presided over the event together with Japanese Ambassador Ueno Atsushi.

More than 2,000 participants attended, including government officials, diplomats, representatives of international organisations, members of the armed forces, CMAC staff, teachers, students and local residents.

Prak expressed gratitude to Japan for providing 2 billion yen (around US$17 million) for Phase II, which supported mine clearance and victim assistance in Pursat, Battambang and Pailin provinces.

He welcomed Japan’s continued support for Phase III, backed by a further 1.7 billion yen (about US$11 million), to be implemented in Pursat, Battambang and Koh Kong provinces.

Cambodia remains one of the countries most heavily affected by landmines and unexploded ordnance after decades of conflict.

Mine clearance programmes have played a crucial role in improving safety, restoring farmland and supporting rural development.

Officials said Japan’s support would further strengthen bilateral ties and help Cambodia meet its mine clearance obligations by 2030.