Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia, has expressed his congratulations to the 25th Anniversary of the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention or the Ottawa Treaty, underlining the Royal Government’s commitment and efforts to clear all landmines in the country.
“Mar. 1 is an important day that we all commemorate the 25th anniversary of the entry into force of the Ottawa Treaty,” the Premier wrote on his social media networks this morning.
This noteworthy convention underscores the joint commitment of the world in its efforts to end the dangers posed by anti-personnel landmines. The launch of the convention set a record in the collective history of mankind for the purpose of preserving life, promoting peace and boosting socio-economic development.
For the past 25 years, Samdech Thipadei continued, this humanitarian spirit has inspired countries, organisations and individuals around the world to work tirelessly towards the elimination of landmines, which often faces serious problems and obstacles.
“As we celebrate this great event, may we honour the courage and dedication of all those who have contributed to this noble cause, and may we reaffirm our shared commitment to continue to work tirelessly towards a complete demining and ensure a safer and more secure world for future generations,” he said.
Cambodia became a party to the Ottawa Treaty in 2000 and has been fulfilling its role as a model and leading State Party in the elimination of anti-personnel mines, he said, stressing that Cambodia’s mine clearance achievements have been recognised by the international community as one of major achievements of the world.
Moreover, in 2024, in line with the celebration of the 25th anniversary of the Ottawa Treaty, Cambodia was elected by the 164 States Parties to chair and host the 5th Review Conference of the Mine Ban Convention, the Siem Reap-Angkor Summit on a Mine-Free World, in November in Siem Reap cultural province.
According to the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA), Cambodia has cleared all landmines in 18 out of 25 provinces and capital and aims to achieve landmine-free status by 2025.
