Cambodia Dispatches 355 Peacekeepers to Enhance Global Peacekeeping Efforts
Cambodia has dispatched 355 peacekeepers, including 86 women, to UN missions in South Sudan, the Central African Republic, and Lebanon, replacing previous forces. Deputy Prime Minister General Tea Seiha emphasized their humanitarian roles, including mine clearance and infrastructure support. Since 2006, Cambodia has sent nearly 10,000 peacekeepers to various operations and has become a leading contributor in Southeast Asia.
On February 5, Cambodia sent 355 peacekeepers, which included 86 women, to participate in United Nations peacekeeping missions in South Sudan, the Central African Republic (CAR), and Lebanon. This deployment will replace previous peacekeeping forces whose one-year assignments have concluded. Major General Sem Ratana of the National Centre for Peacekeeping Forces highlighted the distribution of troops: 73 military police to South Sudan, 98 explosive ordnance disposal personnel to the CAR, and 184 engineering staff to Lebanon.
At the send-off ceremony in Phnom Penh, Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister General Tea Seiha affirmed the peacekeepers’ roles in mine clearance, explosive ordnance disposal, and infrastructure development. He stated that the commitment of Cambodian forces underscores the UN’s faith in the nation’s ability to support peace and stability in conflict-affected regions.
Cambodia initiated its participation in UN peacekeeping operations in 2006, having dispatched a total of 9,826 peacekeepers to 10 nations, with a notable inclusion of 857 women. Currently, Cambodian troops serve in four nations: South Sudan, Lebanon, CAR, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. UN coordinators have praised the dedication and bravery of these peacekeepers.
Once reliant on international peacekeeper assistance, Cambodia has evolved into a principal contributor within ASEAN. Cambodian deminers have significantly impacted areas previously ravaged by war by rendering them safe for educational, medical, and agricultural purposes, thus revitalizing communities.
The deployment of peacekeepers from Cambodia to various conflict zones reflects the country’s commitment to international peacekeeping efforts. Since its first troop contribution to UN missions in 2006, Cambodia has consistently increased its participation, becoming one of the leading contributors from Southeast Asia. The nation’s peacekeeping operations often involve critical activities such as mine clearance and infrastructure rebuilding, which are essential for the stability and recovery of war-affected areas.
In summary, Cambodia’s recent deployment of 355 peacekeepers signifies its ongoing dedication to international peace efforts and its evolving role as a significant contributor to UN missions. With a focus on humanitarian assistance and recovery initiatives, Cambodian peacekeepers not only fulfill operational duties but also promote stability and safety in some of the world’s most troubled regions. Their service reflects both national transformation and a commitment to global peace.
Original Source: pune.news
