AKP Phnom Penh, March 03, 2025 -- 

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence, H.E. Gen. Tea Seiha, on Mar. 3 presided over a ceremony to commend and decorate Cambodian military units and individuals for their outstanding contributions to international peacekeeping missions. 

The event took place at the Peacekeeping Operations Training Centre (PKO) in Kampong Speu province and highlighted Cambodia’s commitment to global peace and humanitarian efforts.  

During the ceremony, Deputy Prime Minister H.E. Gen. Tea Seiha, praised the exceptional achievements of the Military Police Unit 278, the Multi-Role Engineering Unit 836, and the 2nd Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit 98. 

These units, he emphasised, have demonstrated remarkable skills and dedication in their missions, significantly enhancing Cambodia’s reputation on the international stage. 

Notably, the Military Police Unit 278 and the Multi-Role Engineering Unit 836 are led by female commanders, underscoring the growing role of women in Cambodia’s military and peacekeeping efforts. 

H.E. Deputy Prime Minister laid stress on the importance of increasing female participation in peacekeeping missions, aligning with the government’s goal of achieving 20 percent female representation across all mission areas. 

He highlighted that Cambodia currently has 20.8 percent female personnel participating in United Nations peacekeeping operations across 10 countries, reflecting the nation’s progress in gender equality and its commitment to global peace.  

The Royal Government of the 7th Legislature of the National Assembly, under the leadership of Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, has prioritised continued participation in UN peacekeeping missions as part of its foreign policy. 

This commitment aims to support international efforts to bring peace and stability to conflict-affected regions worldwide. 

Despite facing both traditional and non-traditional security challenges—such as armed conflicts, terrorist threats, and health crises—Cambodia remains steadfast in its contributions to global peacekeeping. 

 H.E. Gen. Tea Seiha spoke highly of the bravery and resilience of Cambodian peacekeepers, who operate in complex and often dangerous environments. 

He also reiterated Cambodia’s dedication to working alongside the international community to promote peace, security, and humanitarian values worldwide. 

Cambodia’s active role in UN peacekeeping missions not only strengthens its global standing but also demonstrates its commitment to fostering a more peaceful and secure world.

By K. Rithy Reak