25th Anniversary of National Mine Awareness Day

25 Feb
As we mark the 25th Anniversary of National Mine Awareness Day, the vibrant celebrations in Battambang City serve as a powerful reminder of our collective journey towards a safer future. The ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center (ARMAC), in solidarity with the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA) and the global community, celebrates this pivotal milestone in our mission against the remnants of war.
It was an honor for our Executive Director Rothna Buth to attend this significant event, embodying ARMAC’s dedication to mine action across ASEAN.
Our commitment is further exemplified by the inspiring leadership and vision shared by H.E. Ly Thuch, Senior Minister and First Vice President of CMAA. His updates on Cambodia’s progress towards a landmine-free 2025 and the establishment of the “Samdech Techo Project for Mine Action” under the theme “Providing Safe Ground, Creating Smiles” are commendable milestones in our shared mission.
Central to our reflections on this day is the profound speech by H.E Buakeo Phumvongsay, Ambassador of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic to Kingdom of Cambodia and ASEAN Chairmanship 2024. He eloquently highlighted the essence of unity and collaboration in overcoming the challenges posed by landmines and Explosive Ordnance (EO). “As we stand on the cleared lands, we are reminded of the resilience of the human spirit and the power of collective action. Our path to peace is paved with the dedication of every deminer, the support of the international community, and the strength of those who’ve suffered. Together, we’re not just clearing land; we’re reclaiming futures.”
This message resonates deeply with our mission at ARMAC, urging us to renew our commitment to a mine/EO-free ASEAN. Each Explosive Ordnance cleared, each piece of land returned to communities, and every life saved propels us closer to our goal.
Let us continue to stand united in our efforts to secure a safer tomorrow for all. Together, we can turn the vision of a mine-free future into a reality.
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