AKP Phnom Penh, January 17, 2025 --

Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister H.E. Prak Sokhonn, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, has encouraged the ASEAN Regional Mine Action Centre (ARMAC) to collaborate closely with Cambodian mine clearance agencies. 

The encouragement was made when he received a courtesy call by Ms. Buth Rothna, Executive Director of ARMAC, at the ministry on Wednesday. 
H.E. Deputy Prime Minister said that despite being a small country, Cambodia has earned global recognition for its active engagement and significant contributions to mine action.

H.E. Prak Sokhonn reaffirmed Cambodia's commitment to advancing regional mine action efforts and urged ARMAC to collaborate with the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA) and the Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC) to strengthen synergies and to leverage on Cambodia's leadership and expertise in mine action. 

The Cambodian top diplomat expressed pride and congratulated Ms. Buth Rothna on her appointment as ARMAC's first female Executive Director, and commended her achievements and dedication to addressing the humanitarian challenges posed by landmines and explosive remnants of war (ERW). 

He emphasised the critical role mine action plays in promoting peace, stability, and sustainable development within the region and globally.

Both sides took stock of ARMAC’s ongoing projects and initiatives, and underlined the importance of enhancing visibility and public awareness of ARMAC's humanitarian efforts. 

By Heng Panha