Phnom Penh (FN), Dec. 4 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said that celebrating National Day for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Cambodia is to remind Cambodian people the great devastation of war, especially the Pol Pot genocidal regime.

The premier spoke on Monday (Dec. 4) during a celebration of the 25th National and 41st International Day of PWDs \ at Diamond Island Convention and Exhibition Center, Phnom Penh.

"In Cambodia, the celebration of the National Day for PWDs is held to commemorate the devastation caused by the war, especially the genocidal regime of Pol Pot, leaving widows, orphans, the disabled, as well as millions of tons of landmines and explosive remnants of war behind,” the premier underlined.

According to the prime minister, the devastation of war is a tragic consequence of irresponsible bombings, resulting in the loss of millions of lives and countless injuries. This burden has fallen on the shoulders of the Royal Government of Cambodia in the present era.

Premier Hun Manet underlined that on a global scale, the observance of the International Day of PWD serves as a commemoration of the struggle for social rights endured by over one billion people worldwide grappling with physical and intellectual disabilities. Since the 1950s in the United States and Europe, efforts have been underway to transform living conditions and raise awareness about disability issues. The focus is on advocating for disability rights and integrating considerations for disabilities into all aspects of political, economic, social, and cultural activities.

On the occasion, Samdech Thipadei added that in 2023, Cambodia successfully hosted both the SEA Games and the ASEAN Para Games, marking a significant milestone in the nation's international events. These platforms have presented historic opportunities, particularly for athletes with disabilities from across the region. Cambodia facilitated inclusive competition, showcasing the remarkable potential of individuals with disabilities on equal footing with their able-bodied counterparts.

It should be noted that Cambodia ratified the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities on December 20, 2012, with the Convention coming into force on January 19, 2013. The kingdom has been actively implementing the promotion of the participation of persons with disabilities in economic, social and political activities.
=FRESH NEWS