Phnom penh: The Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA) and the Embassy of India in Cambodia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to continue mine clearance operations, strengthening their commitment to making Cambodia mine-free.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the MoU was inked today at the CMAA headquarters by H.E. Senior Minister Ly Thuch, First Vice President of the CMAA, and H.E. Dr. Vanlalvawna Bawitlung, Ambassador of India to Cambodia. This agreement facilitates mine clearance in Prey Andoung village, Progil commune, Phnom Kravanh district, Pursat province, with the ultimate goal of declaring it a mine-free village. The project is funded by a grant from the Government of India through its Quick Impact Projects (QIP) scheme in Cambodia.
Senior Minister Ly Thuch highlighted the significance of the signing, stating that it is a testament to the long-standing friendship between the Governments and peoples of India and Cambodia. He emphasised that India's support for mine action reflects a robust partnership committed to mutual assistance, contributing to Cambodia's vision to become free from the impact of mines and Explosive Remnants of War (ERW).
H.E. Ly Thuch further noted that India's support goes beyond clearance, acting as a path to restoring community dignity and expanding Cambodia's potential. He referenced the partnership's scope, including clearing land in Koh Kong and Pursat provinces and the "India for Humanity" initiative, which provides prosthetic limbs to mine victims.
Speaking on behalf of Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet, Senior Minister Ly Thuch expressed gratitude to Ambassador Bawitlung and his team for their dedication to resolving Cambodia's legacy of war, improving communities' livelihoods through the QIP initiative.
Ambassador Bawitlung stated that the MoU reflects the long-standing friendly relations between India and Cambodia, built on trust, goodwill, and shared commitment. This marks the third mine clearance project under the QIP framework of the Mekong-Ganga Cooperation, projected to clear 20 hectares of land, benefiting approximately 1,000 individuals.
The Ambassador remarked that Prey Andoung village will be declared mine-free, creating opportunities for a safer future. He underscored that mine clearance efforts are crucial for restoring confidence and enabling economic activities, moving Cambodia closer to becoming mine-free by 2030.