In a statement released on 12 Jun 2025, Samdech Moha Boronthepadei HUN Manet, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia, emphasized his country’s commitment to enhancing its national capacities in ocean protection. This comes as the Third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) held in Nice, France, wrapped up with a focus on accelerating action and mobilizing all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean.
During the General Debate, Samdech Thipadei expressed deep concern over the escalating threats to the world’s oceans, including rising sea levels, relentless erosion of coastlines, and pervasive plastic pollution. He called for immediate and decisive action as well as unwavering collaboration to address these challenges. Cambodia is dedicated to expanding marine protected areas, strengthening regulations for sustainable fisheries, and intensifying actions against marine pollution.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed his country’s commitment to multilateralism, having consistently voted in favor of the Resolution on the ‘Ocean and the Law of the Sea’ at the 79th session of the UN General Assembly. He also emphasized that Cambodia has been actively engaged in addressing climate change through various initiatives to ensure environmental sustainability and energy transition.
One notable achievement is Cambodia’s signature of the Agreement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ Agreement). This landmark agreement affirms Cambodia’s support for protecting marine biodiversity and ensuring fair and sustainable use of marine genetic resources in areas beyond national jurisdiction.
Furthermore, Cambodia joined the global call to combat plastic pollution by supporting the Nice Wake-Up Call. The country also held bilateral meetings with leaders from France, the European Union, Tajikistan, Céte d’Ivoire, Belgium, and Austria, where it reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening bilateral relations in areas such as clean energy, agriculture, education, and climate change.
The Prime Minister expressed his appreciation for the robust partnership between Cambodia and Belgium, particularly in mine clearance, education, and the Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia (ECCC). He also acknowledged the significance of the bilateral consultation mechanism between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs as a vital tool to further strengthen and expand cooperation across multiple sectors.
Overall, Samdech Thipadei’s participation in the Third United Nations Ocean Conference underscores Cambodia’s growing role in regional and international affairs. The country’s commitment to multilateralism and its dedication to addressing global challenges such as ocean conservation and climate change demonstrate its position as a key player in the Asia-Pacific region.
Cambodia’s Commitment to Ocean Conservation and Sustainable Development
Cambodia has made significant strides in enhancing its national capacities in ocean protection. The country has expanded marine protected areas, strengthened regulations for sustainable fisheries, and intensified actions against marine pollution. These efforts align with Cambodia’s long-term vision of achieving a clean, green, and sustainable future.
Bilateral Cooperation and Strategic Partnerships
The Prime Minister’s bilateral meetings with leaders from various countries highlighted the importance of strengthening bilateral relations in areas such as clean energy, agriculture, education, and climate change. These partnerships are essential for promoting economic growth, improving living standards, and addressing global challenges together.
Conclusion
Samdech Thipadei’s participation in the Third United Nations Ocean Conference demonstrates Cambodia’s commitment to ocean conservation and sustainable development. The country’s dedication to multilateralism and its efforts to address global challenges such as climate change underscore its position as a key player in regional and international affairs. As the world continues to navigate the complexities of ocean conservation, Cambodia’s leadership will be crucial in promoting cooperation and addressing these pressing issues.