UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres praised the Pentagonal Strategy introduced by the Cambodian government for being consistent with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Guterres made the remarks during his September 22 meeting with Prime Minister Hun Manet in the US’ New York City on the sidelines of the 78th UN General Assembly (UNGA), according to the latter’s social media post after the talks.
Guterres thanked Cambodia for sending peacekeeping forces to several countries under the UN peacekeeping mission. He assured Manet that the UN system has a high commitment to poverty reduction, adherence to the rule of law and respect for human rights.
He said the UN will support and cooperate with Cambodia to achieve its SDGs for the interests of all Cambodians.
Manet told Guterres that ensuring peace and stability is a crucial task that all nations must firmly commit to for the advancement of their socio-economic development.
Manet expressed gratitude to the UN for orchestrating the 1993 general election through the UN Transitional Authority in Cambodia (UNTAC), a pivotal event that played a role in fostering peace, ultimately contributing to the current state of the Kingdom.
He also extended thanks to the UN for its support of the Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia (ECCC), commonly known as the Khmer Rouge tribunal.
Manet stressed that Cambodia remains committed to its policy of cooperating with the UN, including providing deminers and other personnel for UN missions.
He highlighted that Cambodia has already deployed over 9,000 individuals to participate in UN missions.
The premier affirmed Cambodia's commitment to collaborate with the UN, informing Guterres that the Kingdom has signed an agreement to extend the presence of the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights office in the country. He underlined that this extension signifies Cambodia's dedication to enhancing its human rights situation.
He reflected that no other ASEAN country hosts a UN Special Rapporteur office.
