AKP Phnom Penh, February 27, 2025 --

A contingent of 184 Cambodian peacekeepers, including 35 women, departed from Phnom Penh International Airport on Feb. 27 to join the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Lebanon. 

This marks the 15th deployment of Cambodia’s Multi-Skill Engineering Unit, which will replace the outgoing team that has completed its one-year mission successfully.

The send-off ceremony was held at Phnom Penh International Airport under the presidency of Major Gen. Sem Ratana, First Vice President of the National Committee and Acting Director General of the National Centre for Peacekeeping Forces, Mine, and ERW Clearance (NPMEC). 

He conveyed best wishes from Cambodia’s Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence H.E. Gen. Tea Seiha, and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation H.E. Prak Sokhonn.

In his address, Gen. Sem Ratana urged the troops to uphold discipline, teamwork, and vigilance in executing their duties, emphasising that safety must remain the top priority. 

He advised them to remain adaptable, learn from past experiences, and correct any mistakes to ensure the mission’s success for their country, families, and themselves.

He also reminded the peacekeepers to strictly follow UN mission protocols and directives from commanding officers in their assigned areas, ensuring their safety and effectiveness in the field.

Cambodia has been an active contributor to UN peacekeeping efforts, with its blue-helmet troops playing a crucial role in international peace and stability.

By K. Rithy Reak