Phnom Penh (FN), Dec. 29 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet posed a question during a ceremony marking the 25th anniversary of the end of the Cambodian civil war at the Win-win Memorial monument in Phnom Penh.

"If the war were still ongoing, how many lives would be lost or shattered? how many military leaders would have perished? and how many women and children would be left as widows and orphans?" the premier underscored.

The premier underlined the profound impact of peace, stressing that its benefits are tangible and positive. In contrast, the consequences of war, especially the mass killing of Cambodians, are immeasurable. The conclusion of the war has allowed officers and soldiers from different factions to unite and commit to safeguarding the peace and stability of the Cambodian people.

Additionally, Premier Hun Manet recalled his active involvement in demining efforts, revealing that over half of the mines have been successfully cleared. He credited the Win-win policy, which concluded the war in 1998, for saving lives and preventing ongoing casualties. The premier highlighted the policy's role in turning former battlefields into zones of development.

As Cambodia celebrates 25 years of peace, the premier reflected on the transformative achievements, including the integration of the former four-party army into a unified force – a historic milestone securing Cambodia's territorial integrity and fostering development in former conflict zones.
=FRESH NEWS