Ministry, IOM discuss migration, trafficking
ASENIOR official at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation offered his appreciation for the assistance provided by the UN’s International Organisation for Migration (IOM) in supporting vulnerable migrant workers and combating human trafficking.
Ministry secretary of state Luy David met with IOM Asia-Pacific regional director Sarah Lou Arriola on May 2, said a ministry press release.
“David welcomed Arriola’s visit to Cambodia and congratulated her on her recent appointment as regional director. He also shared his appreciation for IOM’s assistance in protecting vulnerable Cambodian migrants and combating human trafficking, as well as the capacity building work it has done in Cambodia,” it said.
“He praised the IOM for its close cooperation with the Cambodian national and provincial authorities and development partners to provide immediate assistance to migrant workers returning from abroad during the Covid-19 pandemic,” it added.
During the meeting, Arriola informed David of the IOM’s continued support and assistance for the Kingdom’s migration management.
“She affirmed her commitment to maintaining the existing close cooperation, and pledged to work alongside all stakeholders,” said the release.
“She also wished to see closer cooperation among ASEAN countries – as well as between ASEAN and the Gulf Cooperation Council – to combat human trafficking, drug trafficking and border control management,” it added.
According to the ministry, Arriola also congratulated Cambodia on its successful chairmanship of ASEAN in 2022 and its historic hosting of this year’s 32nd SEA Games.
“Both sides reiterated their shared determination to further enhance their close cooperation,” it added.
David also took to social media to discuss the meeting.
“We discussed the relationship between Cambodia and IOM in recent years, and how it had contributed to protecting Cambodian migrant workers and combating human trafficking,” he said.
“We also exchanged views on current challenges and ways in which we might further safeguard the livelihood of Cambodian migration workers against possible future events,” he added.