Cambodia sends 4th batch of 309 troops to Mali for peacekeeping mission

Cambodia sent the fourth batch of 309 troops, including 25 females, to join a United Nations peacekeeping mission in the conflict-torn West African nation of Mali on Tuesday, officials said.

The troops would replace the third batch, whose one-year term had come to an end, said Gen. Pol Saroeun, Commander-In-Chief of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF), during a sending-off ceremony held at the capital's Military Airbase.

The peacekeepers are divided into two groups. One will be responsible for airport repairs and maintenance and the other will be in charge of explosive ordnance disposal.

"It's a high risk mission in Mali due to ongoing armed conflicts and a threat from terrorism," he said, advising the troops to be extra vigilant.

Gen. Saroeun also told the group to strictly comply with the UN discipline and the RCAF rule when they perform their duties in Mali.

Debora Comini, United Nations Resident coordinator, said Mali was a long way from home and the mission would undoubtedly challenge the peacekeepers professionally and personally.

"On the other hand, it is a great opportunity for you all to do great honor to your units, your fellow-soldiers, yourselves as well as to Cambodia, which is dedicated to international peace, security and friendship," she said.

"Through its contribution to the United Nations peacekeeping missions, Cambodia stands out as an example to the world," she said.

Comini added that their dedication to helping others, sharing their skills with other countries that are suffering from conflict, would be precious and a source of hope and inspiration to many.

According to Comini, since 2006, Cambodia has dispatched a total of 4,459 personnel, including 171 females, to join UN peacekeeping missions in Sudan, South Sudan, Central African Republic, Chad, Syria, Lebanon and Mali. Endit