Geneva:Cambodia has urged for increased practical support under Agenda Item 10 of the Human Rights Council to assist over 20,000 displaced Cambodians in returning home safely and with dignity.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, this appeal was made by H.E. Ambassador Ke Sovann, Cambodia's Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office at Geneva, during the 63rd session of the Human Rights Council. He addressed the council while delivering Cambodia's statement under Agenda Item 10, which focused on the presentation of the Secretary-General's report regarding the role and achievements of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in aiding Cambodia in promoting and protecting human rights.

In his address, Ambassador Ke Sovann expressed gratitude for the Secretary-General's report and noted that Cambodia's human rights priorities are informed by its historical experiences of war and division. He emphasized that peace, development, the rule of law, and the welfare of the people remain central to the country's endeavors.

He also called for an impartial and evidence-based evaluation of Cambodia's human rights situation, taking into account the national context. Ambassador Ke Sovann expressed concern over certain recommendations that seemed to assign responsibility solely to Cambodia for outcomes that necessitate cooperation from international partners, such as the return of individuals displaced by the Cambodia-Thailand border conflict and efforts to combat transnational crimes.

Ambassador Ke Sovann reiterated Cambodia's dedication to ongoing collaboration with the OHCHR and highlighted the necessity of practical support under Agenda Item 10. He underscored its importance in facilitating the safe and dignified return of displaced Cambodians to their homes.