Cambodia has dispatched 355 peacekeepers, including 86 women, to UN missions in South Sudan, the Central African Republic, and Lebanon. The troops will replace previous forces after their one-year term. The deployment represents Cambodia’s commitment to peace, reflecting its transformation from a recipient of peacekeeping aid into a top contributor in ASEAN.
On February 5, Cambodia sent 355 new peacekeepers, including 86 women, to support United Nations peacekeeping missions in South Sudan, the Central African Republic (CAR), and Lebanon. Major General Sem Ratana, the acting Director-General of the National Centre for Peacekeeping Forces, stated that these troops are replacing previous units that completed their one-year duties.
The peacekeepers consist of 73 military police tasked with the UN Mission in South Sudan, 98 explosive ordnance disposal personnel assigned to the CAR, and 184 engineering staff deployed to the UN Interim Force in Lebanon. At a send-off ceremony in Phnom Penh, Defence Minister General Tea Seiha emphasized the role of the peacekeepers in mine clearance, explosive ordnance disposal, and engineering, as well as their contribution to humanitarian efforts.
Cambodia has been participating in UN peacekeeping missions since 2006 and has sent a total of 9,826 personnel, with 857 being women, to various peacekeeping operations in ten countries. Currently, Cambodian forces are active in four nations, including South Sudan, Lebanon, the CAR, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The dedication of Cambodian peacekeepers has earned commendation from UN officials.
Previously a recipient of UN assistance, Cambodia has now emerged as a significant contributor of blue helmets within ASEAN. Cambodian deminers have played a crucial role in transforming hazardous areas into safe zones suitable for vital infrastructure, including schools, hospitals, and agricultural land.
Cambodia’s involvement in UN peacekeeping missions began in 2006, marking the nation’s transformation from a beneficiary of peacekeeping efforts to a contributor. This progression reflects Cambodia’s commitment to global peace and security, as evidenced by the increasing number of personnel deployed to various conflict regions. As part of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Cambodia’s contribution to UN missions underscores its evolving role on the international stage.
Cambodia’s recent deployment of 355 peacekeepers demonstrates its ongoing commitment to international peacekeeping efforts, particularly in conflict-affected regions. By replacing previous contingents and engaging in vital humanitarian and engineering tasks, Cambodian forces continue to gain recognition for their dedication and effectiveness in UN operations. This ongoing contribution illustrates the significant shift in Cambodia’s role from recipient to a key player in global peace initiatives.
Original Source: pune.news
