The UN High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) on Tuesday reiterated its commitment to supporting Cambodia in the protection of refugees and asylum seekers.
UNHCR representative to Cambodia Giuseppe de Vincentiis on Tuesday held a meeting with Interior Minister Sar Kheng during which they discussed Cambodia’s work in supporting refugees.
Vincentiis praised the Kingdom for joining the 1951 Refugee Convention, explaining that not many Asean members have signed the agreement, Ministry of Interior deputy spokesman Phat Sophanit told reporters after the meeting.
“His Excellency Giuseppe de Vincentiis is very appreciative of the work carried out by Cambodia.
“He is determined to continue supporting and sharing his experience with the Ministry of Interior to protect and support refugees and asylum seekers, particularly with regards to capacity building for local officials,” said Sophanit.
Vincentiis, he said, lauded Cambodia for setting up a civic registration system, which, he said, helps manage refugees and asylum seekers more effectively.
“Samdech Sar Kheng said that without the work of the UNHCR, Cambodia would not have achieved so many of its goals. Our cooperation with UNHCR on supporting refugees and asylum seekers is always fruitful,” Sophanit said.
Licadho senior investigator Am Sam Ath declined to comment on the matter, while Interior Ministry spokesman Khieu Sopheak could not be reached for comment on Wednesday.
