(Nice, France): Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet affirmed that the ocean is our shared treasure — the blue heart of the planet — and that Cambodia is dedicated to enhancing its national capacities in ocean protection. Cambodia has expanded its marine protected areas, strengthened regulations on sustainable fisheries management, and enhanced national initiatives to combat marine pollution.

The premier addressed at the Third United Nations Ocean Conference under the theme "Accelerating Action and Mobilizing Partnerships: Solutions for Ocean-Based Climate Action, Biodiversity, and Sustainable Development”, held in Nice, France.

Samdech Thipadei underlined, “It [The ocean] is the source of food, energy, and water, providing livelihoods and economic benefits to every nation. It regulates climate and generates the oxygen we breathe. It is fundamental to our planet's rich biodiversity. The ocean is vital to the well-being and prosperity of generations to come.”

As a responsible member of the global community, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet voiced Cambodia’s deep concern over the escalating threats to the world’s oceans, including rising sea levels, relentless erosion of coastlines, pervasive plastic pollution, the rapid decline of marine biodiversity, and the overexploitation of marine resources. He underscored that these challenges demand immediate and decisive action, as well as unwavering collaboration.

Addressing the forum, Samdech Thipadei also highlighted Cambodia's Circular Strategy on Environment 2023-2028, which focuses on three fundamental pillars: Clean, Green, and Sustainable. This strategy plays a vital role in protecting the health of marine ecosystems and ensuring their long-term protection.

He affirmed that within the United Nations framework, Cambodia is fully committed to achieving the Sustainable Development Goal 14. Additionally, Cambodia has consistently voted in favour of the resolution on ‘Oceans and the Law of the Sea’, which received overwhelming support from 152 countries during UNGA79. These efforts reflect Cambodia’s deep understanding that protecting life on land is inseparable from preserving life beneath the ocean.

Cambodia also reaffirmed its strong commitment to becoming a party to the ‘Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction’ (BBNJ) Agreement, which was adopted on 19 June 2023.
=FRESH NEWS