New york: Peace is Cambodia’s most precious treasure, as the country has endured decades of war and genocide that traumatised its people and devastated the nation. The remarks were made by Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation H.E. Prak Sokhonn in his statement during the High-Level Week of the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Sept. 27.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, H.E. Prak Sokhonn highlighted that peace has allowed Cambodia to rebuild from complete ruin. Before the pandemic, the country’s economy achieved an average annual growth of around 7 percent, positioning Cambodia to graduate from Least Developed Country status by 2029. This development has lifted millions out of poverty over the past decades. He expressed gratitude for the partners supporting Cambodia towards smooth graduation through open and inclusive trade.
Guided by its Pentagonal Strategy, Cambodia aligns its development agenda with the Sustainable Development Goals. The Kingdom officially launched the Roadmap to achieve the Universal Health Coverage in Cambodia by 2035 last year and expanded access to quality education, ensuring that Cambodian youth are equipped for a changing world. Cambodian women now hold leadership positions in government and private enterprises at unprecedented levels, strengthening the societal fabric.
H.E. Prak Sokhonn emphasized Cambodia’s commitment to protecting and expanding civic space and strengthening democratic governance, acknowledging that development and human rights are inseparable pillars of lasting peace.
On the topic of climate action, he highlighted Cambodia’s submission of its third Nationally Determined Contribution to the UNFCCC and the recent signing of the Agreement on Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ). These actions reflect Cambodia’s belief in environmental stewardship as a global duty and a moral imperative.
He further noted that with complete peace at home, Cambodia has been able to contribute to global peacebuilding and peacekeeping efforts. From hosting a UN peacekeeping mission, Cambodia has become a steadfast contributor to global security.
Since 2006, Cambodia has deployed over 10,000 peacekeepers, including more than 800 women, to ten UN missions worldwide. These peacekeepers have protected civilians, cleared landmines, and supported the rebuilding of war-torn communities. H.E. Prak Sokhonn stressed Cambodia’s active membership in the UN Peacebuilding Commission, assisting nations emerging from conflict in building institutions and fostering reconciliation.