Phnom Penh, 11 April 2012

Cambodian Military Police Company number 702 and Hospital Level 2 Company number 801 will depart Cambodia on Monday 16 April on a peacekeeping mission in South Sudan.

They are among the 153 peacekeepers Cambodia will send to South Sudan this year. To date, 839 Cambodian troops have completed peacekeeping missions, and 222 are currently on mission.

Speaking at the ceremony, UN Resident Coordinator, Mr Douglas Broderick, thanked the peacekeepers and applauded the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces Peacekeeping Teams for continuing Cambodia’s legacy of contribution to global peacekeeping efforts.

Mr Broderick called on the peacekeepers to continue to reflect on the duty of responsibility placed upon them as they lend their support to the fledgling new country – South Sudan.

“It is remarkable to see the transition this country has made from being a country where UN peacekeeping forces were required, to becoming a contributor to UN peacekeeping operations.

“By sharing your skills and experience with countries that are enduring conflict and political instability, your work helps save lives and rebuild the communities in which you serve.

“As you depart today for South Sudan, you become a part of the United Nations family as you enter the service of humanity. The UN and the world are grateful to you, the Government and the people of Cambodia for making this peacekeeping contribution and we call on you to be always conscious of the burden of responsibility that comes with being a United Nations peacekeeper,” Mr Broderick said.

More than most countries, Cambodia knows first-hand the value of peace, stability and safety. Cambodia’s strong commitment to peace has led the Royal Government of Cambodia to provide essential security and support to those in conflict, and to contribute to peace and stability throughout the world.

“No Nation can live in harmony and prosperity without peace and stability and thus our mission is very important,” emphasized H.E. Tea Banh, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense.

“The departure of the two companies is indeed a new milestone that manifests our commitment and greater contribution to global peace,” added H.E. Prak Sokhonn, Chairman of the National Coordination Committee.

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For further information, please contact:
Casey McCarthy, UN Communication and Advocacy Officer, UN Resident Coordinator’s Office
Tel: (855) 023 216 167, ext. 124. Mobile 017 996 540. Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it "> This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it