Prime Minister Hun Manet is leading a high-level Cambodian delegation to attend the Third United Nations Ocean Conference, taking place in Nice, France, from today until Wednesday.
The participation in the conference is at the invitation of French President Emmanuel Macron and UN Secretary-General António Guterres.
According to a press release from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mr Hun Manet and First Lady Dr Pich Chanmony, will be accompanied by Prak Sokhonn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, along with other ministers and senior government officials.
The theme of the event is “Accelerating Action and Mobilising Partnerships: Solutions for Ocean-Based Climate Action, Biodiversity, and Sustainable Development”. Mr Hun Manet will deliver Cambodia’s National Statement during the General Debate, highlighting the Kingdom’s vision, commitments, and initiatives in ocean governance, climate resilience, and sustainable development.
He is expected to hold bilateral meetings with several leaders on the margins of the conference, to strengthen bilateral relations and reaffirm Cambodia’s commitment to multilateral cooperation.
“Cambodia’s participation demonstrates its firm dedication to global efforts in addressing ocean-related challenges and promoting the sustainable use of the ocean and marine resources, consistent with Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Life Below Water),” said the press release.
Yang Peou, Secretary-General of the Royal Academy of Cambodia, emphasised the importance of Cambodia’s participation in the conference, calling it a vital platform for the country to expand its presence on the international stage.
Peou noted that the world’s oceans face numerous challenges, including environmental degradation, exploitation of mineral resources, maritime territorial disputes, pollution from weapons testing, and geopolitical rivalries over sea control.
