Cambodia has dispatched 355 peacekeepers, including 86 women, to South Sudan, CAR, and Lebanon for UN missions. This deployment replaces personnel whose missions had ended and showcases Cambodia’s commitment to international peacekeeping. The peacekeepers will focus on mine clearance and engineering tasks. Since 2006, Cambodia has sent over 9,800 peacekeepers worldwide, demonstrating its evolution from a recipient of aid to a significant contributor to global peace efforts.
Phnom Penh, Cambodia has recently dispatched 355 new peacekeepers, inclusive of 86 women, to participate in United Nations peacekeeping operations 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, confirmed that these personnel would be replacing a contingent whose one-year missions had concluded.
The deployment consists of 73 military police personnel assigned to the United Nations Mission in South Sudan, 98 explosive ordnance disposal experts for the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the CAR, and 184 multi-role engineering staff for the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon. This mission highlights Cambodia’s ongoing commitment to international peacekeeping and security.
During the send-off ceremony in Phnom Penh, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence General Tea Seiha emphasized the peacekeepers’ roles in mine clearance, explosive ordnance disposal, road engineering, bridge construction, and various humanitarian activities. He noted that this deployment exemplifies United Nations confidence in Cambodia’s contributions to promoting peace in conflict-affected regions.
Since its first troop deployment in 2006, Cambodia has sent a total of 9,826 peacekeepers, which includes 857 women, across ten countries. Presently, Cambodian peacekeepers are actively serving in four nations: South Sudan, Lebanon, CAR, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The United Nations has recognized the valor and commitment of Cambodian personnel to global peace and security endeavors.
Formerly a recipient of UN support, Cambodia has transformed into a significant contributor of UN peacekeepers within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Cambodian deminers involved in mine-action programs have played a pivotal role in making hazardous areas safe, allowing for the establishment of schools, hospitals, and farms in previously dangerous territories.
Cambodia’s involvement in UN peacekeeping missions began in 2006, following decades of internal conflict and instability. This transition marked a significant shift from being a beneficiary of international assistance to a contributor of peacekeeping forces. By establishing effective partnerships with the UN and successfully participating in missions worldwide, Cambodia has enhanced its international reputation and established itself as a reliable partner in promoting global peace and security.
The recent deployment of 355 Cambodian peacekeepers signifies the nation’s commitment to contributing to global peace efforts. With various roles in mine clearance and infrastructure development, their participation underscores Cambodia’s evolution from a target of humanitarian assistance to a proactive player in international peacekeeping operations. This ongoing contribution reflects not only Cambodia’s dedication but also its growing stature within global peace and security initiatives.
Original Source: pune.news
