Thuch updates Czechs on demining progress
LY THUCH, first vice-president of the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA), met with Martin Vavra, ambassador of the Czech Republic to Cambodia, to discuss the Kingdom’s demining efforts and offer the envoy a clearer understanding of the sector.
During the February 26 meeting, both sides discussed the close bilateral relations and friendship and cooperation between the two countries.
Thuch also extended the regards of Prime Minister Hun Manet, president of the CMAA, to the ambassador and his colleagues, noting that they have fulfilled a precious mission for the common good of the peoples of both countries, and strengthened the bonds of cooperation.
He also explained how the Cambodian government has strived to resolve the issue of landmines and established the “Mine-Free Cambodia 2025” vision.
“As the chair and hosts of the ‘Siem Reap-Angkor Summit on a Mine-Free World’ and the Ottawa Convention 2024, we welcome any and all contributions and support from friendly countries, development partners and all relevant sides, to ensure the summit is a success,” said Thuch.
The ambassador hailed the Kingdom’s rapid growth, and the achievements of the mine action sector, saying that he would convey the request for support for the summit to his government for consideration.
The 5th Review Conference of the Mine Ban Convention (Ottawa Convention) 2024 is set to be held in Siem Reap province from November 2529, as part of the Siem ReapAngkor Summit.
Heng Ratana, directorgeneral of the Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC), explained that according to procedure, review conferences are held every five years to assess the implementation of the convention.
“The 21st Meeting of the State Parties to the Ottawa Convention in Geneva selected Cambodia to host the conference,” he said.
He added that the Kingdom has made strong efforts to implement the convention, especially Article 5. This article stipulates that each affected state is required to clear and destroy all anti-personnel mines in the areas under its jurisdiction or control as soon as possible, but no later than 10 years after becoming a party to the convention.