AKP Phnom Penh, May 04, 2026 --

H.E. Lt. Gen. Sem Ratana, Acting Director General of the National Centre for Peacekeeping Forces, Mine and ERW Clearance (NPMEC), has expressed profound appreciation to France for its continued support in providing training to personnel of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF), both domestically and abroad.

Speaking during a meeting here on Monday morning with a French military delegation led by Brigadier General Arnaud BRUNAT, French military advisor, H.E. Lt. Gen. Sem Ratana highlighted that from 2009 to April 2026, France has delivered a total of 94 training courses to Cambodian military personnel. These included 73 courses conducted in Cambodia, benefiting 2,003 trainees, and 16 courses held in France with the participation of 16 Cambodian trainees.

He noted that the training programmes covered a wide range of specialised areas, including demining operations, Level 2 unexploded ordnance (UXO) disposal, counter-improvised explosive devices (C-IED), staff officer training, military observation, GPS operations, computer skills, first aid, military policing, explosive transport, French language training for officers, ammunition technical skills, and war college education.

On behalf of the National Centre for Peacekeeping Forces, H.E. Lt. Gen. Sem Ratana requested France to continue offering additional training programmes to further strengthen the capacity of Cambodian forces. He emphasised that such knowledge and skills are crucial, particularly for Cambodia’s contributions to United Nations peacekeeping missions.

In response, Brigadier General Arnaud BRUNAT expressed satisfaction with the ongoing bilateral cooperation, noting that the training initiatives have played a significant role in enhancing the technical expertise and operational readiness of RCAF personnel. He added that these efforts contribute meaningfully to Cambodia’s ability to participate effectively in international peacekeeping operations under the UN framework.

By C. Nika