How are UNDP-Cambodia and ASEAN Mine Action Centre Renewing Their Partnership?
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Synopsis
In a significant move, the UNDP in Cambodia has renewed its partnership with the ASEAN Regional Mine Action Centre. This collaboration aims to enhance knowledge sharing and technical cooperation in mine action, ultimately striving for a mine-free region. Discover how this initiative will impact peace and security across ASEAN nations.
Key Takeaways
- Collaboration between UNDP and ARMAC aims to enhance mine action efforts.
- Focus on technical cooperation and knowledge sharing among ASEAN member states.
- Significant advancements in Cambodia's mine action management over the past 20 years.
- Commitment to regional peace and reducing casualties from landmines.
- ASEAN solidarity plays a crucial role in achieving a mine-free region.
Phnom Penh, July 7 (NationPress) The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Cambodia has collaborated once again with the Phnom Penh-based Association of SouthEast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Regional Mine Action Centre (ARMAC) to enhance knowledge sharing and collaboration on mine action, as stated in a joint press release on Monday.
On Friday, Alissar Chaker, the UNDP resident representative in Cambodia, and Buth Rothna, the Executive Director of ARMAC, formalized a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at boosting technical cooperation and knowledge sharing pertaining to mine action.
According to the press release, this partnership is designed to bolster ARMAC's initiatives to foster peace and security while minimizing casualties from landmines and Explosive Remnants of War (ERW) across affected ASEAN member nations.
Both organizations will enhance regional coordination, cultivate partnerships, share knowledge, and exchange best practices in mine action, particularly focusing on advocacy, clearance and land release, victim assistance, and risk education.
Chaker highlighted that Cambodia has achieved significant advancements over the last two decades in enhancing mine action management, including the development of policies, legal frameworks, standards, and information systems for land clearance and release, while also raising public awareness and promoting risk education on ERW, and supporting victim assistance, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
She noted, “The Kingdom’s extensive knowledge and expertise are invaluable resources for other mine-affected ASEAN countries and in strengthening peace and security throughout the region.”
Rothna emphasized that the MoU embodies the essence of ASEAN solidarity and the mutual commitment to achieving a mine-free region.
She stated, “By merging ARMAC’s regional mandate and technical coordination role with UNDP’s global presence and development expertise, we are positioned to elevate cooperation across ASEAN to unprecedented levels.”
The ASEAN grouping includes countries such as Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.
Point of View
It is crucial to emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing humanitarian issues. The renewed partnership between UNDP-Cambodia and ARMAC reflects a strong commitment to leveraging shared expertise for the greater good of affected communities. This initiative stands as a testament to ASEAN's dedication to regional solidarity and progress towards a mine-free future.
NationPress
27/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the renewed partnership?
The renewed partnership aims to enhance knowledge sharing and cooperation on mine action, promoting peace and reducing casualties from landmines and Explosive Remnants of War in ASEAN member states.
Who signed the Memorandum of Understanding?
The MoU was signed by Alissar Chaker, UNDP resident representative in Cambodia, and Buth Rothna, Executive Director of ARMAC.
How will this collaboration impact ASEAN countries?
This collaboration will facilitate regional coordination, partnership building, and the exchange of best practices in mine action, which includes advocacy, clearance, victim assistance, and risk education.
Why is Cambodia's experience important?
Cambodia's extensive experience in mine action management over the past 20 years serves as a valuable resource for other mine-affected ASEAN nations, contributing to regional peace and security.
What is ASEAN's stance on a mine-free region?
ASEAN is committed to achieving a mine-free region, as reflected in the MoU between UNDP-Cambodia and ARMAC, showcasing solidarity among member states.
