The Cambodian government floated the possibility of legislation to help clarify the roles of different actors involved in disaster management yesterday, the UN humanitarian chief said.

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Under-secretary-general for humanitarian affairs and emergency relief coordinator Valerie Amos said government officials had stressed capacity building for disaster relief in her meetings with them.

This could include “legislation that helps clarify responsibilities of different actors” including government bodies, NGOs and civil society groups, she said.

Officials had brought up the kinds of resources needed on the ground including various forms of transport, she said.

Cambodia was the first stop on Amos’ first official visit to Southeast Asia since her appointment.

Her one-day visit included meetings with deputy prime minister Hor Namhong and officials from agencies such as the National Committee for Disaster Management and the Cambodian Red Cross, a Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman said.