The Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA) has underscored a significant milestone in Cambodia’s journey as it prepares to preside over and host the 5th Review Conference of the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention (Ottawa Convention), titled the Siem Reap-Angkor Summit on a Mine-Free World, scheduled for November 25-29 this year.
The remarks were made by CMAA first vice-president Ly Thuch during the opening of the peer-to-peer exchange on the Ottawa Convention held on August 8 in Phnom Penh.
“Today’s event marks a significant milestone in Cambodia’s journey as president and host of the 5th Review Conference of the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention,” he stated.
The event was attended by representatives from embassies, as well as delegates from the foreign ministries of Laos, Japan, China, Thailand, Malaysia and the Philippines. Also present were delegates from the Thailand Mine Action Centre (TMAC), the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the Implementation Support Unit (ISU) of the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention.
Development partners, representatives from various government ministries, individuals, operators and agencies also participated in the event.
“This gathering is not just an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to a mine-free world but also a crucial step in achieving our objectives and advancing our presidency priorities. It is essential to the success of our mission,” senior minister Thuch emphasised.
He highlighted that presiding over and hosting the conference is of profound significance for the Kingdom, not only for the honour it brings but also as recognition of the country’s incredible journey and contributions – a small country with a big heart.
“Our determination and commitment are boundless. As president of the convention, we have worked tirelessly to uphold its spirit and objectives,” he affirmed.
Thuch expressed his gratitude for the trust and confidence that the States Parties of the Convention and relevant international organisations have placed in Cambodia and its people, noting that the country was once devastated by decades of war and landmines.
“Our landscapes bear the scars of conflict, and our communities have endured the pain and suffering inflicted by these indiscriminate weapons.
“Yet, through resilience, determination and the steadfast support of the international community, we have emerged stronger and more committed than ever to the cause of mine action,” he said.