Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA) first vice-president Ly Thuch addresses an August 7 reception celebrating Swiss National Day held in Phnom Penh. CMAA
The Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA) has urged Switzerland to continue its support for Cambodia's goal of becoming a mine-free nation, emphasising the priceless contribution of Swiss aid in clearing contaminated land.
CMAA first vice-president Ly Thuch expressed his appreciation for Switzerland's cooperation and support in the sector.
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“The Swiss government’s $15 million contribution towards clearing contaminated land is invaluable. This collaboration underscores the importance of international efforts in addressing humanitarian challenges and promoting peace.
“We hope Switzerland, as one of our most important partners, will continue to support Cambodia’s goal of becoming a mine-free country,” he said during an August 7 reception celebrating Swiss National Day in Phnom Penh.
Senior minister Thuch expressed gratitude for Switzerland’s continuous support for Cambodia's presidency of the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention (Ottawa Convention) and the upcoming 5th Review Conference, saying, “This support is instrumental in our shared mission to eliminate the threat of landmines and promote a safer, more secure world.”
He highlighted the two nations’ long history of diplomatic relations since 1963, characterised by mutual respect, understanding and collaboration, noting their enduring partnership as a testament to their shared commitment to peace, prosperity and sustainable development.
Thuch acknowledged Switzerland’s significant contribution to Cambodia's development through the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC).
“As we look to the future, let us reaffirm our unwavering commitment to deepening the friendship between Cambodia and Switzerland.
Together, we have the strength to overcome any challenges, the vision to seize every opportunity and the determination to build a brighter, more prosperous future for generations to come,” he said.
According to a July 31 social media post by the Swiss Cooperation Mekong, since 2013, Switzerland has provided around $15 million to Cambodia's mine action sector, initially through the UNDP and, since 2020, directly to the demining organisation HALO Trust.
Switzerland is supporting Cambodia's presidency of the 5th Review Conference of the Ottawa Convention, the Siem Reap-Angkor Summit on a Mine-Free World, to be held from November 25-29 this year.
