Phnom Penh (FN), Mar. 2 – Ly Thuch, First Vice President of the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA) and also the President of the Ottawa Convention 2024 delivered remarks at the 25th Anniversary of the Ottawa Convention.

"Today, we stand on hallowed ground, amidst the echoes of history, as we commemorate a beacon of hope, a testament to human compassion and resolve. The 25th anniversary of the Ottawa Convention.

A quarter-century ago, the world came together in an unprecedented display of unity and courage. The adoption of the Ottawa Convention was not merely a diplomatic achievement; it was a pledge etched in the hearts of nations—a solemn vow to safeguard, to heal, and to restore the inherent dignity of every soul marred by the scourge of landmines. It was a moment when humanity rose above itself to cast a light into the shadows of despair, offering a hand to those trapped in the silent aftermath of conflicts.

As we gather in reflection and reverence, it is my profound privilege to convey the sentiments of a true visionary, a leader whose commitment to peace and humanity knows no bounds—Samdech Moha Bovor Thipadei Hun Manet, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia. On this momentous occasion, he extends his heartfelt congratulations to all those who have journeyed on this path of hope, marking the 25th Anniversary of the Ottawa Convention.

Congratulations on the 25th anniversary of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines and on their Destruction (the Ottawa Convention).

On this significant day, 1 March, we commemorate the 25th anniversary of the entry into force of the Ottawa Convention.

This landmark treaty embodies the collective determination of the global community to rid our world of the insidious threat posed by landmines. Its inception marked a pivotal moment in our shared history, uniting nations under a common goal of safeguarding lives, promoting peace, and fostering humanitarian progress.

Over the past quarter-century, this spirit has inspired nations, organisations, and individuals to work tirelessly towards the eradication of landmines, often in the face of formidable challenges and obstacles.

As we celebrate this remarkable milestone, let us honor the courage and dedication of all those who have contributed to this noble cause, and let us reaffirm our collective resolve to continue working tirelessly toward the complete eradication of landmines and ensuring a safer and more secure world for generations to come.

The Ottawa Convention entered into force for Cambodia in 2000 and Cambodia has been actively working towards fulfilling its obligations under the Ottawa Convention and becoming a leading state in the eradication of landmines. The international community has recognised Cambodia’s achievement as a significant contribution to global efforts.

In addition, 2024 is a momentous year as we commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Ottawa Convention, and Cambodia was elected by 164 States Parties of the Convention as President and Host of the Siem Reap-Angkor Summit on a Mine-Free World, where we will adopt the 5-Year Siem Reap-Angkor Action Plan and the Siem Reap-Angkor Declaration.

Once again, congratulations on the 25th Anniversary of the Ottawa Convention.

Let us embrace this message, not just as words, but as a call to action—a reminder of the work that remains and the lives we vow to uplift. With gratitude and admiration, we thank the Prime Minister for his unwavering leadership and dedication to a world free from the shadows of fear and suffering.

Esteemed guests, as we stand united in this significant moment, let us rekindle the spirit of the Ottawa Convention with renewed fervor, pledging once more to tread the path of compassion, to heal the wounds of the past, and to forge a future illuminated by the light of hope and human dignity."
=FRESH NEWS