12,175 people from 85 countries around the world took part in an international half-marathon in Siem Reap province on Sunday. Supplied
The International Labour Organisation (ILO) on Sunday took part in an international half-marathon in Siem Reap province to promote social justice and decent jobs for all.
The ILO, along with the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training and the National Social Security Fund (NSSF), also marked the 100th anniversary of its establishment and the 50th anniversary of Cambodia’s membership in the organisation.
A press release from the ILO reported the attendance of some 550 participants from the ILO, the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training, the NSSF, trade unions and employers’ associations, the private sector, national and international organisations, UN-Cambodia, students and other relevant stakeholders.
Ministry spokesman Heng Sour told The Post on Sunday that the celebration of the anniversary was an opportunity for the ministry and the ILO to acknowledge the fruits of their collaboration, especially in the labour sector.
“[This] includes establishing legal standard letters, strengthening capacities of the tripartite mechanism for labour policies, skills development and improvement in social relations,” he said.
Cambodian Labour Confederation president Ath Thorn told The Post on Sunday: “The ILO continues to help the government under its programme for the labour sector to promote decent employment across the country.
“In the meantime, our government has implemented the five-year Strategic Development Plan of 2019-2023 along with the ILO to create better job opportunities for all.”
Presided over by Minister of Tourism Thong Khon, the 24th International Half Marathon was organised at Siem Reap’s Angkor Wat on Sunday morning.
The event was joined by 12,175 people from 85 countries around the world, a 20 per cent increase from last year’s attendance.
The Ministry of Tourism reported that most of the foreigners who joined the event were British nationals, followed by Japanese, American, Australian and French.
Graeme Buckley, ILO country office director for Thailand, Cambodia and Lao PDR, said in the press release: “It is right that we should feel pride in the achievements of past decades.
“The partnership we have developed with the government and people of Cambodia are replete with many achievements.”
