AKP Phnom Penh, July 01, 2025 --

Peace is the foundation of development, and without peace, development cannot occur. Under the wise leadership of Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, Cambodia is expected to continue advancing toward greater development, prosperity, and resilience.

This message was highlighted by Ms. Alissar Chaker, outgoing United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative in Cambodia, during her farewell visit to Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet at the Peace Palace this afternoon.

Ms. Chaker praised the strong partnership between the UNDP and the Royal Government of Cambodia (RGC), which she said has significantly contributed to the Kingdom’s socio-economic development. She expressed her sincere gratitude to the RGC and its relevant ministries and institutions for their effective cooperation with UNDP, particularly during the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

She also welcomed Cambodia’s planned graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status by 2029—another milestone for the country—and expressed her hope that the UNDP would continue to assist Cambodia in preparing for this transition.

Additionally, Ms. Chaker commended Cambodia’s achievements in mine action. She noted that, with the support of the United Nations and development partners, Cambodia has developed the capacity to manage mine clearance operations effectively, independently, and with full autonomy.
In response, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet thanked the UNDP for its ongoing support and cooperation through various programmes that have contributed to Cambodia’s socio-economic progress and brought tangible benefits to its people.

The Prime Minister emphasised that the RGC’s policies are centred on the people—focusing on strengthening the education and health sectors, creating job opportunities, enhancing human capital, and building a resilient social protection system. He also highlighted the government's commitment to training 1.5 million young people from poor and vulnerable backgrounds, equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary to support Cambodia’s graduation from LDC status in 2029.

Samdech Thipadei reaffirmed his strong support for continued cooperation between the RGC and UNDP, and encouraged the UNDP to work even more closely with relevant ministries and institutions to strengthen and expand their collaboration.

By C. Nika