A new rotation of the Kingdom’s peacekeeping forces is ready to assume their posts in the Central African Republic (CAR), under the banner of UN peacekeeping operations.

A send-off ceremony for the 244 troops was held at the Training School for Multinational Peacekeeping Forces in Kampong Speu province on July 4.

Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Sok Chenda Sophea presided over the ceremony, which was also attended by Kristen Parco, acting UN resident coordinator, along with senior defence officials.

“The event celebrated the deployment of 244 troops – including 36 women – from Multi-Role Engineering Unit 468 to the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA),” said a foreign ministry press release.

Chenda Sophea conveyed regards from Prime Minister Hun Manet, noting that Manet closely monitors the contributions of Cambodian forces to global peacekeeping. 

The foreign minister, who also serves as chairman of the National Coordination Committee for UN Peacekeeping Operations, praised the troops’ dedication and readiness, highlighting Cambodia’s growing reputation for excellence in UN humanitarian missions.

“Cambodia takes great pride in our Blue Helmet peacekeepers,” he said.

“Your bravery and commitment not only bring honour to our nation but also play a crucial role in fostering global peace, stability, and security,” he added.

Chenda Sophea highlighted the importance of the mission, noting the complex and challenging environment in CAR. He urged the peacekeepers to remain vigilant, prioritise their safety and uphold the highest standards of professionalism and solidarity. 

He also emphasised strict adherence to UN protocols to ensure the success and integrity of their mission.

The UN’s Parco took to social media to share her thoughts on the deployment.

“I am particularly inspired by the Cambodian women peacekeepers who are joining MINUSCA. Women are crucial to our peacekeeping operations, offering critical expertise, insight and experience to peace operations. I wish the Cambodian peacekeepers a safe and rewarding journey,” she said.

The ministry noted that this deployment is part of Cambodia’s longstanding commitment to international peacekeeping efforts. 

It added that over the years, the Kingdom’s troops have been recognised for their effectiveness and dedication in various UN missions worldwide, reflecting the Cambodian government’s unwavering support for international peace and security initiatives.

A July 4 social media post by the National Centre for Peacekeeping Force, Mine, and ERW Clearance (NPMEC) quoted Parco as saying “the departure of the blue helmets was a reaffirmation of Cambodia’s commitment to upholding the spirit of the UN Charter”.

“The UN greatly appreciates your courage and dedication. As you participate in the UN peacekeeping mission in the CAR and contribute to global peace and security, please remember that you leave with our deepest gratitude and highest respect,” she added.

A July 4 social media post by the UN in Cambodia explained that “Parco and Chenda Sophea reaffirmed the commitment of Cambodia to attaining peace, dignity, and prosperity for all”.

NPMEC director-general Sem Sovanny also addressed the event. 

He noted that in the past 18 years, Cambodia has sent a total of 9,570 troops on 12 UN peacekeeping missions in 10 countries. Their work includes demining, horizontal-vertical construction engineering, policing, level 2 hospitals, airport engineering and unexploded ordnance (UXO) disposal.

Troops have been deployed to Sudan, South Sudan, Chad, Lebanon, Cyprus, Syria, the Central African Republic, Mali, Yemen and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

He added that 627 Cambodian blue helmets are currently deployed on missions in four war-torn countries: South Sudan, Lebanon, the CAR and the Democratic Republic of Congo.