AKP Phnom Penh, December 02, 2025 --

A senior Canadian official on Monday praised Cambodia's internationally recognised leadership in humanitarian mine action while expressing deep sympathy for communities along the Cambodia-Thailand border affected by past conflict and explosive remnants of war (ERW).

Mr. Jason Kelland, Canada’s Senior Official for Policy, Non-Proliferation, and Disarmament Affairs, delivered the remarks during a bilateral meeting in Geneva with H.E. Dr. Ly Thuch, Senior Minister and First Vice President of the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA).

Senior Minister Ly Thuch conveyed the Royal Government of Cambodia’s high regard for the country’s longstanding diplomatic ties and cooperation. He specifically thanked Canada for its continued support for humanitarian mine clearance, particularly through results-based projects implemented in partnership with the CMAA, and appealed for sustained Canadian assistance.

During the discussion, H.E. Ly Thuch briefed the Canadian delegation on the humanitarian situation along the Cambodia-Thailand border, recalling the severe difficulties faced by Cambodian civilians who were forced to flee to safety amid past military conflicts.

He detailed extensive damage to public infrastructure, including homes, schools, health centres, and cultural sites like ancient temples.

While security has largely eased and displaced residents have returned, H.E. Dr. Ly Thuch warned that the danger persists due to explosive remnants of war, particularly cluster munitions, scattered across communities and farmlands. He cited a recent incident where a young Cambodian was killed after encountering unexploded cluster ordnance.

Mr. Kelland expressed regret over the suffering endured by the border communities due to the conflict.

He commended Cambodia’s global leadership in mine action, highlighting that the country has built a robust national coordination mechanism and accumulated decades of experience. Mr. Kelland suggested that this expertise offers valuable lessons for other countries grappling with similar challenges.

He also welcomed Cambodia’s recent public statements, which demonstrate a firm commitment and political will toward humanitarian mine clearance, alongside the country’s active engagement in global mine action efforts.

By K. Rithy Reak