How Did Cambodia Achieve Mine-Free Status in Botum Sakor with India's Help?
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Synopsis
Discover how India's assistance has led to Cambodia declaring the Botum Sakor district in Koh Kong mine-free, fostering safety and sustainable development. This monumental achievement reflects international collaboration and a commitment to building a brighter future for the region.
Key Takeaways
- Botum Sakor district in Koh Kong is now mine-free.
- India provided a grant of $426,709 for demining.
- The goal is to achieve a mine-free Cambodia by 2030.
- Demining efforts are vital for safe living conditions.
- Collaboration between nations enhances humanitarian efforts.
Phnom Penh, May 2 (NationPress) Thanks to India's support, Cambodia has officially announced that the Botum Sakor district in Koh Kong is now mine-free, paving the way for safer living conditions and sustainable regional development.
India's Commitment to Cambodia's Progress! The Embassy of India in Phnom Penh shared on X that with grant support from India, the Botum Sakor District in Koh Kong has been declared mine-free, facilitating safer land utilization, enhanced livelihoods, and sustainable growth.
In 2023, India and the Cambodia Mine Action and Victims Assistance Authority (CMAA) formalized an agreement dedicated to rendering Botum Sakor, Srae Ambel, Thma Bang districts, and Trapeang Rung Commune in Koh Kong province free from mines, supported by an Indian grant totaling $426,709.
This initiative was announced by Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar during his visit to Cambodia in November 2022, in a meeting with then Prime Minister Samdech Hun Sen.
The agreement was finalized by India's Ambassador to Cambodia and Ly Thuch, Senior Minister and First Vice-President of CMAA.
Thuch expressed gratitude for India's role in demining efforts, emphasizing its importance in expediting the mine clearance process and aiding Cambodia's ambition to become mine-free by 2025.
He noted that India has previously assisted in making four villages in Koh Kong Province mine-free as part of the Quick Impact Project with a grant of USD$ 50,000.
Thuch stated that CMAA looks forward to collaborating with the Indian Embassy to ensure the effective execution of grant assistance projects in Koh Kong.
Earlier this month, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Mane urged global support to achieve the national target of a mine-free Cambodia by 2030.
Cambodia, severely impacted by landmines and Explosive Remnants of War (ERW), has extended its mine-free goal to 2030 from the prior target of 2025, due to challenging geographical conditions for mine detection and clearance along the border.
Approximately four to six million landmines and munitions remain from decades of conflict, which concluded in 1998.
An official report indicates that landmine and ERW explosions have resulted in 19,830 lives lost and 45,242 injuries or amputations in Cambodia from 1979 to June 2024.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the cooperative efforts between Cambodia and India in achieving a mine-free status in Botum Sakor. This partnership not only demonstrates India's commitment to humanitarian aid but also underscores Cambodia's resilience in overcoming the lasting impacts of conflict. A united approach towards demining and sustainable development is essential for a brighter future.
NationPress
12/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of declaring Botum Sakor mine-free?
Declaring Botum Sakor mine-free enhances safety for residents and promotes sustainable development in the region.
How much financial assistance did India provide?
India provided a total grant of $426,709 to support demining efforts in Botum Sakor and other districts.
What are the long-term goals for Cambodia regarding landmines?
Cambodia aims to be completely mine-free by 2030, extending its previous goal of 2025 due to geographical challenges.
How has India's support impacted Cambodia's mine clearance?
India's support has accelerated mine clearance efforts and strengthened Cambodia's capacity to achieve its humanitarian goals.
What has been the historical impact of landmines in Cambodia?
Landmines and ERW have caused significant casualties in Cambodia, with thousands of lives lost and injuries sustained since 1979.
