The President of the Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM) has commended Cambodia for its commitment to clearing the deadly weapons, even as armed tensions rise on its border with Thailand.
In an August 4th letter, CCM President Carlos D. Sorreta praised Senior Minister Ly Thuch of Cambodia’s national mine action authority (CMAA) for the country’s “consistent support to the humanitarian principles” of the convention. Sorreta also expressed deep concern over the border situation, stating that “ensuring the protection of civilian populations should be of utmost priority.”
The exchange followed a Cambodian letter on July 28th that condemned Thailand’s past use of cluster munitions and recent military build-up. Ly Thuch reiterated that Cambodia respects the convention and views ordnance clearance as essential to its national security. Sorreta concluded by expressing hope that dialogue could lead to a peaceful resolution.
