A Cambodian senator has requested that NGO International Medical Relief (IMR) focus their attention on vulnerable communities in the Cambodian-Thai border provinces in a future mission, as an IMR relief team winds up a mission in Cambodia this week.
Thun Vatana, second vice-president of the Senate, met with Shauna King, founder of IMR, and her team members on July 31. Vatana thanked them for their tireless efforts, noting that Cambodia is fortunate to be among the 90 countries where IMR provides free, effective medical services.
“I suggest that your team reach your 1,000,000th patient in the province where the Preah Vihear Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located. I hope these goals are not a mission impossible for the IMR team,” he told the team, urging them to focus on the area affected by the recent Thai-Cambodia clashes.
So far, IMR has conducted nearly 30 missions to Cambodia, with the latest carried out in Koh Dach commune in Chroy Changvar district, Phnom Penh.
According to IMR, the latest project brought along 21 volunteers, a mix of medical professionals and non-medical assistants.
“Together, they set up mobile medical and dental clinics, delivered vital treatments and provided health education that empowers families for the long term. They were not just here to treat — but to listen, to learn and to love this community,” it said.
Vatana took the opportunity to tell them how the Cambodia people deeply appreciate the timely, effective action of US President Donald Trump, which resulted in a ceasefire between Cambodia and Thailand.
He also extended gratitude to the leaders and people of Malaysia and China for their efforts in orchestrating the ceasefire, promoting a peaceful resolution and upholding international law.
“Cambodia has consistently welcomed foreign friends to the conflict zones to ensure transparency and allow the world to witness the truth,” he said.
“Last but not least, I wish you all a safe and enjoyable journey back to Colorado, a beautiful and peaceful place I dream of visiting in the future,” he told the mission.
