New York (FN), Oct. 9 – On behalf of Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, President of the Ottawa Convention, Ly Thuch, called on nations worldwide to continue to support and adhere to the principles of the Ottawa Convention, particularly by voting in favour of the United Nations resolution on the implementation of the Convention, and to increase participation in global humanitarian mine action efforts.

Ly Thuch spoke on 8 October 2024 at the first meeting of the Disarmament and International Security Committee of the 79th United Nations General Assembly in New York, USA.

Ly Thuch said Cambodia takes pride in hosting and chairing the Fifth Review Conference of the Ottawa Convention, also known as the Siem Reap-Angkor Summit on a Mine-Free World. This summit serves as a crucial forum for the global mine action community to reaffirm their commitment to eliminating the suffering caused by anti-personnel mines.

Ly Thuch added that as the president of the Convention, Cambodia will adopt the next five-year action plan, the "Siem Reap-Angkor Action Plan 2025-2029," alongside the Siem Reap-Angkor Political Declaration. These documents will serve as vital guiding frameworks for the leadership and implementation of the Ottawa Convention from 2025 to 2029.

He also pointed out Cambodia's tragic history as one of the nations most heavily affected by landmines, which killed or injured more than 65,000 people and severely hampered economic and social development. However, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Royal Government of Cambodia and international cooperation, the country has made remarkable progress in mine action, transforming formerly dangerous areas into safe lands for housing and development. Cambodia views mine action as a critical humanitarian duty that has brought new hope and transformed the lives of people and communities affected by mines.

Ly Thuch urged countries to continue supporting and upholding the principles of the Ottawa Convention, particularly by voting in favour of the UN resolution on its implementation, increasing participation in humanitarian mine action, and encouraging non-signatory states to consider joining the Convention. He also invited all countries to engage in the upcoming Siem Reap-Angkor Summit on a Mine-Free World.

Finally, he reaffirmed Cambodia's commitment to mobilising assistance and garnering support for global mine action, including relief efforts in countries still grappling with mine-related challenges.
=FRESH NEWS