On October 13, 2024, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MFAIC) and the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA) conducted a joint briefing to discuss progress on preparations for the upcoming Siem Reap-Angkor Summit on a Mine-Free World. The session was co-led by His Excellency KE Sovann, Under Secretary of State at the MFAIC, and His Excellency LY Panharith, Secretary General of the CMAA.
The event brought together 29 ambassadors, representatives from the United Nations Resident Coordinator Office in Cambodia, and members of foreign diplomatic missions residing in Cambodia. The briefing served as a platform to highlight the summit’s objectives and the special events Cambodia plans to host in conjunction with this significant gathering.
The Siem Reap-Angkor Summit reflects Cambodia’s unwavering commitment to global mine clearance efforts and assistance to mine victims. As a country profoundly affected by the legacy of landmines, Cambodia has become a global leader in advocating for mine-free initiatives. This summit will provide a vital forum for nations, organizations, and experts to share insights, strategies, and resources to accelerate mine clearance efforts worldwide.
During the briefing, H.E. KE Sovann provided an overview of the summit’s agenda, emphasizing its focus on collaborative efforts to address landmine challenges globally. The discussions highlighted the importance of coordinated action among governments, international organizations, and civil society to create safe environments and support affected communities.
H.E. LY Panharith detailed the logistical preparations and key components of the summit. He outlined the special events that will be hosted alongside the main gathering, aimed at fostering awareness, building partnerships, and celebrating progress in mine action. These activities will not only underscore the global commitment to a mine-free world but also showcase Cambodia’s progress in this critical area.
The summit is set to take place in Siem Reap, a location chosen for its symbolic significance and its proximity to Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. By hosting this event in Siem Reap, Cambodia aims to draw global attention to the urgent need for continued mine clearance efforts and the importance of international collaboration in achieving this goal.
Cambodia’s leadership in mine clearance is built on decades of dedicated effort and international support. The country has made remarkable progress in reducing the threat posed by landmines, thanks to the tireless work of its demining teams and the support of global partners. Despite these achievements, challenges remain, and the summit aims to galvanize collective action to address them.
Participants at the briefing also discussed the broader implications of mine clearance, including its impact on socio-economic development, environmental sustainability, and human security. Removing landmines is not only a humanitarian imperative but also a cornerstone for fostering long-term growth and stability in affected regions.
As the Siem Reap-Angkor Summit approaches, Cambodia stands ready to welcome leaders and stakeholders from around the world. The event represents a significant milestone in the global effort to achieve a mine-free future, reaffirming the shared responsibility of nations to address this pressing issue. Through dialogue, collaboration, and innovation, the summit seeks to advance the vision of a safer, more secure world for generations to come.
Source: MFAIC News
