Cambodia, Croatia Strengthen Mine Action Cooperation at Phnom Penh Talks

PHNOM PENH, Oct. 19, 2026: Cambodia and Croatia have held talks on strengthening cooperation in mine action and innovation, with both sides seeking a world free from the threat of explosive remnants of war.

H.E. Dr. Ly Thuch, Senior Minister and First Vice-President of the Cambodian Mine Action Authority, and Croatian Foreign Minister H.E. Gordan Grlić Radman led the Cambodia-Croatia dialogue at the CMAA headquarters in Phnom Penh, attended by diplomats, development partners and mine action operators.

H.E. Ly Thuch congratulated Croatia on completing its clearance obligations under the Ottawa Convention after 31 years and destroying about 107,000 mines, describing the experience as valuable for countries still on the mission.

Photo: H.E Ly Thuch
He said Cambodia has cleared more than 3,500 square kilometres and destroyed over 4 million mines and explosive devices since 1992, and remains committed to being free of explosive remnants of war by 2035 despite new discoveries in border areas.

He highlighted the role of drones, satellite imagery, sensors and artificial intelligence in speeding clearance, while stressing that people remain the core of success. Cambodia stands ready to share its experience with Croatia and learn from Croatia's approach to the final challenging areas and long-term victim support.

Source: H.E. Ly Thuch, Senior Minister and First Vice-President of the Cambodian Mine Action Authority


Reported by The Khmer Daily Network