Cambodian PM meets with new UN human rights envoy

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen met with newly-appointed United Nations Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Cambodia, Rhona Smith, on Monday to discuss issues related to human rights, a senior official said.

Smith promised to work with no bias and not to violate the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity, according to Eang Sophalleth, an aide to the prime minister.

"Smith told the prime minister that during her mandate, she would do all her best to enhance and protect human rights in Cambodia," he told reporters after the meeting.

Hun Sen welcomed Smith's mission in Cambodia, saying that the government would cooperate with the UN Human Rights Office to further promote and protect human rights and democracy in the country.

Smith, who succeeded Surya P. Subedi, whose six-year term ended in April, arrived here last Wednesday for a nine-day visit to observe human rights situation.

Speaking in a statement prior to her trip, Smith said besides meeting with the prime minister, she would meet with government senior officials, civil society and local community representatives, and donor community representatives.

"I thank the government for this opportunity to visit the country before I report to the UN Human Rights Council later this month," she said. Endi