His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni has warned that recent attacks by the Thai military have created a severe burden for the government’s landmine and unexploded ordnance (UXO) efforts. He urged donor countries to continue supporting Cambodian demining work.
In a Royal message, released to mark February 24, the 27th anniversary of National Mine Awareness Day, themed “Join Together for War Refugees and Safe Communities”, the King noted that Cambodia has endured decades of war, leaving an enormous quantity of landmines and explosive remnants of war (ERWs) scattered across the country.
Landmines and UXOs have devastated physical infrastructure, hindered national development and caused tens of thousands of Cambodians to suffer injuries, lifelong disabilities and loss of life. They have also caused painful, unforgettable tragedies that persist to this day.
“Our country Cambodia was recently attacked with artillery, tanks and aircraft by Thai troops along the Cambodian-Thai border. On the battlefield, bombs, ammunition and other unexploded ordnance are scattered across Cambodian villages. This creates a severe burden for the Royal Government of Cambodia, which must carry out additional clearance operations,” the King said.
His message explained that the government previously destroyed all types of stockpiled landmines. It has strived to intensify mine clearance campaigns, with the support and assistance of national and international organisations, to safely release land for farmers nationwide.
While expressing his gratitude to the government of Cambodia, the international community, and donors for their efforts in clearing landmines, minefields and UXO — saving the lives of countless citizens — the King also appealed to the international community to continue supporting this cause.
“I appeal to the governments of friendly countries, domestic and international organisations, and local and international philanthropists to kindly continue your cooperation and support for the clearance of landmines and unexploded ordnance, and to assist landmine victims in the Kingdom of Cambodia,” he said.
