China & Japan Unite to Support Mine Clearance Efforts in Cambodia

• 6 February 2025
• Local News
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In a significant move to enhance safety and promote development, China and Japan granted nearly USD 6 million to support ongoing mine clearance operations in Cambodia. This funding will focus on the Cambodian Mine Action Center (CMAC) and the Japan Mine Action Service (JMAS), focusing on eight provinces affected by landmines and unexploded ordnance.

Chinese support, amounting to USD 4.4 million, will fund the “China-Aided Cambodia Landmine Elimination Project.” This initiative is set to run for 12 months, from 1 March 2025 to 28 February 2026. It targets seven provinces: Kampong Thom, Siem Reap, Oddar Meanchey, Preah Vihear, Stung Treng, Kratie, and the Sonkh Center in Kampong Chhnang province. Mr. Heng Ratana, General Director of CMAC, emphasized the project’s ambitious goals, which include clearing over 3,400 hectares of contaminated land, researching unexploded ordnance and cluster munitions, enhancing the capacity of the Son Kh Technical Institute, and improving mine risk education and rescue operations.

This funding marks the third phase of Cambodia’s China Mine Action Assistance Project, with a total budget of USD 13.2 million allocated from March 2023 to February 2026.

In addition to China’s contributions, Japan has stepped up, committing approximately USD 1.3 million towards the JMAS projects. These include the “Project for Reconstruction Support with Mine Clearance in Banteay Meanchey Province” (PRDB Project) and the “Project for Reconstruction Support with Cluster Munition Clearance in Stung Treng Province” (PRCS Project). These initiatives will focus on clearing dangerous materials, educating local communities on mine risk prevention, and training farmers in agricultural management and technology.

Since 2018, CMAC has made significant strides in mine clearance, clearing over 15,060 hectares and discovering a staggering 82,844 mines and munitions. The continued support from international partners like China and Japan is crucial for ensuring a safer and more prosperous Cambodia.

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