Cambodia dispatched 355 peacekeepers, including 86 women, to support UN missions in South Sudan, the Central African Republic, and Lebanon. This deployment underscores the country’s longstanding commitment to international peacekeeping since 2006, which has seen over 9,800 troops sent to various missions worldwide. Minister Tea Seiha highlighted the humanitarian roles these troops will fulfill, acknowledging Cambodia’s evolution into a leading contributor within ASEAN.
On February 5, 2023, Cambodia deployed a contingent of 355 peacekeepers, including 86 women, to participate in United Nations peacekeeping missions across South Sudan, the Central African Republic (CAR), and Lebanon. Major General Sem Ratana, acting Director-General of the National Centre for Peacekeeping Forces, stated that these blue helmets are replacing those from previous missions whose terms conclude after one year.
The peacekeepers comprise 73 military police for the UN Mission in South Sudan, 98 personnel for explosive ordnance disposal in CAR, and 184 engineering specialists for the UN Interim Force in Lebanon. Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister General Tea Seiha emphasized the critical humanitarian roles these peacekeepers will undertake, including mine clearance, infrastructure development, and various support activities.
Since the inception of its overseas UN peacekeeping efforts in 2006, Cambodia has sent a total of 9,826 peacekeepers, with 857 women participating across ten countries. Currently, Cambodian forces are active in South Sudan, Lebanon, CAR, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Their commitment has earned praise from UN resident coordinators, acknowledging their bravery and contributions to global peace initiatives.
Historically, Cambodia transitioned from being a benefactor of UN aid to a significant contributor of peacekeeping forces within the ASEAN framework. The work of Cambodian deminers is especially noteworthy, as they have enhanced safety and rehabilitated areas previously affected by landmines, enabling the repurposing of these spaces for educational and health facilities, as well as agricultural use.
Cambodia’s engagement in international peacekeeping reflects the country’s evolution from a war-torn nation to a proactive member of the global peacekeeping community. Established under the auspices of the United Nations, these missions aim to promote peace and stability in conflict-affected regions. The ongoing deployment of Cambodian peacekeepers underscores the nation’s commitment to humanitarian values and international collaboration in addressing global security challenges.
In conclusion, Cambodia’s recent deployment of 355 peacekeepers to South Sudan, CAR, and Lebanon exemplifies its ongoing commitment to international peacekeeping. As a significant contributor within ASEAN, Cambodia continues to transform its wartime legacy into a robust contribution towards global peace and security, emphasizing the importance of mine clearance and humanitarian assistance in post-conflict recovery.
Original Source: www.daijiworld.com
