Phnom Penh (FN), Dec. 8 – United Nations (UN) Special Rapporteur on Human Rights in Cambodia Vitit Muntarbhorn praised the Royal Government of Cambodia for attaining three significant achievements.

His statement was made in a meeting with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet on Thursday (Dec. 7) at the Peace Palace.

On the occasion, Vitit Muntarbhorn thanked the premier for taking the time to allow him and his colleagues to meet and discuss work. He also expressed appreciation for the remarkable progress in Cambodia, drawing a positive comparison to the earlier era when he was actively involved in supporting Cambodian refugees in 1979 and contributing to the peace process in 1993.

At the same time, the UN Special Rapporteur conveyed gratitude to the Royal Government of Cambodia for accomplishing several milestones. These include: 1) effectively implementing social protection programs amid the battle against COVID19 and donating vaccines to neighboring countries; 2) demonstrating a welcoming and open attitude in engaging with the UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights; and 3) pioneering the establishment of a juvenile justice law, making Cambodia the first country among ASEAN nations to implement such legislation.

In response, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet warmly welcomed the professor and his colleagues on their second visit to Cambodia. He affirmed that the Royal Government consistently regards the UN special rapporteur mechanism as a valuable dialogue partner concerning human rights and democracy issues in Cambodia.

Samdech Thipadei thanked Vitit Muntarbhorn for acknowledging Cambodia's significant achievements in the realm of human rights. He also urged the special rapporteur to contribute to enhancing awareness among citizens and civil society organizations about the responsible exercise of rights and freedoms within the bounds of the prevailing law.

On the occasion, Prime Minister Hun Manet also underscored Cambodia's economic growth, poverty reduction efforts, and the promotion of people's rights and freedoms. He further outlined key policies and political programs outlined in the initial phase of the Pentagon Strategy to the UN Special Rapporteur delegation.
=FRESH NEWS